Stand at the Center of the Hemisphere—In a Tiny Wisconsin Town

Wisconsin is home to one of the most unique features in the world, and by unique, we mean that the center of the world is in Wisconsin. It's true! Most folks don't believe it at first, but Wisconsin boasts a truly fascinating reputation. Located in the central part of the state, west of Wausau, is a truly unique spot of a kind that exists in only a few places worldwide. Tucked away in a field near the town of Poniatowski, you'll find the intersection of 45 degrees north latitude and 90 degrees west longitude. If you're looking for the center of the hemisphere you live in, well... It's in Wisconsin.

The so-called "45 × 90 points" are the four points that are the exact center of the earth's four quadrants: halfway between the geographical poles, the equator, the prime meridian, and the 180th meridian. Of the four, two lie on the ocean floor, one is located in a desolate, mountainous region of China near Mongolia, which is very difficult to reach, and one is right here in Marathon County, Wisconsin.

Compared with the other three 45 x 90 points, the short hike out to the middle of a farm field in Wisconsin seems pretty darn manageable, even if I did sink into the snow quite a bit on my way there. Pro tip: If you go in winter, follow the snowmobile tracks to make the trip a little easier.

Poniatowski is a tiny unincorporated town that's named for a Polish general. We're not kidding when we say this spot is a bit out in the middle of nowhere. But it's not a long drive from Wausau, and it's a pretty cool place to visit—not to mention surprising. Most folks don't know that the center of our hemisphere is in Wisconsin. It's one of the most unique places in Wisconsin.

Because the actual marker was out in a field, there used to be a sign and a symbolic marker. But recently, the area was resurveyed, a path was created, benches were put out, and the official spot is now marked thanks to the generosity of donors. There's an official marker embedded in the ground, and visitors can stand in the very middle of the northern half of the western hemisphere.

There's plenty of information posted to help explain why this spot is so special and unique. It's a true gold mine when it comes to interesting facts about Wisconsin. With two spots underwater and a third virtually unreachable, this tiny but important spot in Wisconsin is really quite awesome. And the scenery's pretty darn gorgeous, as well.

After visiting the location, be sure to stop by the Wausau Convention and Visitors' Bureau in downtown Wausau to sign the visitors' book for the 45 x 90 and receive your very own commemorative coin. It's a fantastic and unique souvenir of your trip to the center of the hemisphere.

The easiest way to find the marker is to enter 5651 Meridian Road, Athens, Wisconsin, into your GPS. Were you surprised to learn that the center of the hemisphere is in Wisconsin? What are some other surprising or odd geographical or geological wonders in the Badger State? We'd love to hear about your favorites on our Nomination page.

Feeling inspired to seek out more unique features in Wisconsin? Try planning your adventures using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.