There are a few big perks to being Wisconsin's governor – you get to fly in official state airplanes, you’re protected by special state security officers, and you get to live in an incredible lakefront mansion rent-free. While ordinary residents aren’t able to jump on a state airplane or use a state bodyguard, they are welcome to take in all of the splendor of the state mansion, if only for a little while. The mansion, known as the Wisconsin Executive Residence, is open for tours and it’s a place you have to see this holiday season – it’s one of Wisconsin’s most festive places. Here’s what’s waiting for you in the mansion.
The Executive residence is located in the Village of Maple Bluff, a suburb of Madison. It’s about three miles from the state Capitol, or a 10-minute car ride when traffic is flowing.
When you see the residence, you'll understand why the governor might be tempted to work from home. It’s a palatial 16,000-square-foot residence located on a prime 3.7-acre Lake Mendota lot.
The home was built in the 1920s for Madison industrialist Carl A. Johnson. It has 34 rooms, 13 bathrooms, seven bedrooms, fireplaces, and formal gardens.
Over the years, 15 governors have pulled into the circular lot and called this amazing place home.
The house has a lot of visitors. Every year, about 20,000 people visit the mansion for tours, receptions, dinners, and meetings. Many visit during the holidays, when the mansion looks especially festive.
The holiday tours are free to the public – you just need to register to get tickets. Visitors are encouraged to donate a non-perishable food item.
The holiday tours take place every December. See the latest tour dates and times and get tickets on the Wisconsin Executive Residence website. Wisconsin has a ton of festive events. Here’s where to have a holly jolly adventure.
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