4 Places in Wisconsin I Wouldn’t Take My Worst Enemy

Growing up in Wisconsin, you learn there are a lot of incredible things to do and places to see. While I don't live there anymore, I still love going back and showing off some of those places, like grabbing a bite to eat in my beloved college town of Ripon or going critter watching in Peninsula State Park. That said, there are also a handful of things you won't catch me doing or recommending to others. Don't get me wrong, I love touristy kitsch as much as the next person, but I would go ahead and skip these items on your next adventure.

1. Top Secret - Wisconsin Dells

Top Secret cropped up in the Wisconsin Dells so long ago that I don't even remember exactly how old I was. Though, to be fair, the Transformers weren't hanging out there in those early days. Giant robots aside, this bizarre roadside attraction still beckons visitors to discover its big secret. Its allure is that it is a replica of the White House flipped upside down on the side of the Wisconsin Dells Parkway. Sure, you could spend money and wander around inside for a little while. Or you could go a little further down the road and hang out at the Deer Park. For me, the Wisconsin Deer Park will always win the day—sorry, Bumblebee.

2. The World's Largest Culver's - Edgerton

Don't get me wrong, I would never pass up a Culver's. My custard loyalty knows no bounds and Scoopie was practically my first boss. However, I wouldn't go out of my way to visit The World's Largest Culver's in Edgerton either. It is exactly like every other location, just bigger. If you happen to be passing by Edgerton anyway, by all means, pop in for a Butterburger. I've done so myself while passing through. But don't stop in there thinking it will be anything more than another blue-roofed burger haven.

3. The Doll House Room at House on the Rock - Spring Green

I want to be very clear on this entry that House on the Rock, especially the gorgeous carousel room, and the Infinity Room, are well worth a day trip. It is specifically the dollhouse room that continues to haunt me. Sure, the minatures are neat at first, until the room keeps going and going. It is one of the largest dollhouse collections in the world. It's also really musty and might give you hay fever, like it did for me—especially if you visit in the crowded summer months.

4. The End of State Street on Badger Game Day - Madison

Living in Madison, and not being a University of Wisconsin-Madison alumna or a football fan, I learned quickly to avoid the 700 and 800 blocks of State Street on Badger game days. Not only will the restaurants and bars be packed, but you'll have to navigate through throngs of rowdy college students. The closer you are to campus, like those last two blocks of the street, the more crowded it will be. If you want to be on State Street on game day, stick to the first few blocks to avoid the chaos. I promise State Street Brats will taste better if you can hear yourself think.