From breweries to exquisite gardens, unique museums to national parks, and to the most beautiful carousel you have ever seen, you will find it all in our sampling of cheap things to do in Wisconsin. Although no list can be complete, we have tried our best to put forth the most unique and top attractions for you.
So, no need to worry about your wallet, as we have done the research to help you keep a tab on your expenses without compromising on fun for your Wisconsin visit.
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Events & Experiences: Cheap Things To Do In Wisconsin
How about a free factory tour or free water acrobatics show? Not at the top of your list? Well, perhaps we can change your mind with free beer or jaw-dropping water ballet and award-winning stunts all performed on skis!
1. Brewery Tour: Milwaukee
People in Wisconsin love their beer. No matter where you are, you will most likely find a brewery nearby. So, why not consider taking a fun and informative Brewery tour to find out everything you ever wanted to know about this popular beverage.
We recommend the Miller Brewery Tour in Milwaukee. With over 160 years of brewing history, the Miller Brewery tour shares their processing methods of over 20,0000 cases per day, as well as a tour of their massive distribution center. You will also go back in time into their underground beer caves and tour their historic Bavarian-style Inn. And, as promised, you will get to savor their ice-cold refreshing beer samples at various points along the way. Tours are $5 for locals and $10 for those traveling out of state, which includes a souvenir glass. And those 20 and under are admitted for free. Also, there are some things to do at night in Milwaukee.
2. Aquanut Water Shows in Kenosha County
How about watching expert water skiers share their best tricks? Well if you love water sports and acrobatics, Kenosha county is the place to enjoy this unique experience. The Aquanuts are five-time National Show Ski Association champions who perform choreographed family-friendly shows on Lake Mary. These spectacular shows are held most Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer months. Sit back and soak up the rays while taking in their daring stunts and jaw-dropping formations, including four-tier pyramids.
The Aquanuts also host Adaptive Aquatic clinics for both adults and children of all levels, which include skiing, tubing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. So, if this is on your bucket list, check out their website for more details. https://aquanutwatershows.com/adaptive/
3. Mustard Museum: Middletown
Yes, that yellow paste that you eat right from the jar! Find out how it’s made, and the history behind this favored condiment. At the end of your museum visit, you can buy a jar or two if you like. There are close to 6,000 jars on display from all over the world, and also a tasting bar for free samples! Now, how about we say those golden words “Free” again!
Art & History: Best & Unique Activities In Wisconsin
Is any trip complete without visiting a museum or two? You can quench your curiosity by checking out these Art and History spots.
1. Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum: Wausau
This is a unique experience for all Art and Bird lovers. The museum is dedicated to Bird-related art and therefore the exhibits here are collectively called ‘Birds in Art’. You will find a terrific bird sculpture at the entrance, as well as many unique works of art throughout the museum.
Exceptionally kid friendly, they feature an Art Park which offers a variety of interactive activities for your children to dive into. Includes Reading Hill for storytime, costumes and puppet play, and more! This is a rich experience that nurtures bird and art-loving culture. Admission is free, and accessibility options are available.
2. University of Wisconsin Geology Museum: Maddison
All you Earth and Dinosaur lovers, this is the place to be! The museum is filled with Geology and Palaeontology related artifacts, which includes Dinosaur skeletons. There are a total of 1,000 items as part of 66 exhibits including rocks, fossils, biosignatures & extraterrestrials. You can even go on an outdoor courtyard treasure hunt to find where various rocks are located! All in all, a great find and treat for all age groups. Admission to the museum is free and guided tours are $2 per person.
3. Wisconsin Veterans Museum: Maddison
Want to know a bit more about the history of our American military heros? Then this is a great museum to visit! They offer many artifacts and stories from every major conflict, including the post war experiences of many veterans. This is an excellent opportunity to increase one’s knowledge and appreciation for what our military went through to fight for our freedom. They offer both permanent and rotating exhibits, so you will learn something new every time you visit! It’s powerful, moving, and educational. Admission is free, and donations are welcomed.
4. The House on the Rock: Spring Green
This is a wonderfully bizarre collection of the absurd, and is truly a one-of-a-kind fantastic experience! Built in the 1940’s and eventually opening to the public in the 1960’s, these collections of new and old, with no apparent theme, is an all around sensory explosion! From vintage automobiles to sculpture gardens, from model airplanes to ornate Asian gardens, a room filled with self-playing instruments to the recreation of a 19th century street, and an infinity room where there seems to be no end! Yes, you name it, and it will probably be here!
One of the most interesting is what is said to be the largest indoor carousel in the world. It is simply magical! It stands 35 feet tall, and features handcrafted dolls, 260 animals, 20,000 lights, and 183 chandeliers. it is truly breath-taking!
Adult admission is $29.95, and children get in for $15.95. These rates might sound steep, but all seem to agree, it is well worth it! Plan to spend 4-5 hours exploring all the vast displays, collections, and unique treasures.
Explore Nature: Top Natural Attractions in Wisconsin
Nature, the sweetness of bird songs, the freshness in the air, and oh the beauty, tranquility, and adventure it offers! You will be rejuvenated after these experiences.
1. Pettibone Beach: La Crosse
If you are looking for a one-stop spot to spend in the great outdoors, this is the place for you. With a fantastic beach to lounge by and swim in, and beautiful shelters to enjoy a meal out from under the sun, you will find everything you need for a day of relaxation and adventure. They offer many activities to engage in, such as volleyball, disc golf, fishing, hiking nearby trails, as well as the option to rent canoes and kayaks to add to your experience.
Whether you are looking for physical activity or time and space to relax while basking in the sun with a good book, Pettibone Beach is a great place to land. And, you won’t need to shell out a penny to do most of the activities here, so it is perfect for shoestring budget-travel.
2. Devil’s Lake State Park: Baraboo
This is Wisconsin’s most popular state park, and offers a wide array of activities including biking, boating, canoeing, camping, hiking, hunting, and so forth. It is a complete outdoor adventure for your Wisconsin road trip experience! And if you are traveling for a little winter get-away, try cross-country skiing in the park.
A few moderate fees to be prepared for: If you enter by vehicle you will need an admission sticker ranging from $28 to $38, depending on your in or out of state residence. And there is a daily lake pass of $13-$16. Tip: They offer significant senior discounts, and as a reminder, they accept national state park passes as well!
3. Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Maddison
This wonderful garden experience is full of natural bliss. Take a stroll through 16 acres of lovely outdoor gardens, which offer breathtaking displays all year long. There are over 15 outdoor garden settings, such as the Thai Pavilion, Rose Garden, Perineal Garden, and Herb Garden. And don’t miss the crown jewel of Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Bolz Conservatory! Here you will find a 50-foot-high glass pyramid amongst the plethora of tropical plants. Enjoy feasting your eyes on the waterfall, birds, colorful butterflies, and world-class orchids. Admission is free!
Wrapping it up
As you can see, there are many free gifts nature has to offer, as well as a variety of inexpensive adventures to consider adding to your Wisconsin itinerary. We hope you enjoyed our sampling of the most unique and cheap things to do in Wisconsin.
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