People Live Their Whole Lives in Wisconsin and Somehow Miss These 5 Places

There is no shortage of things to do in Wisconsin. As someone born and raised in the Dairy State, I know this all too well. You've got the usual suspects like Lambeau Field or the Wisconsin Dells, but there are a ton of other things to do there, too, many of which lifelong Wisconsinites might not even know about. These are five spots you definitely should know about if you don't already!

1. Washington Island Stave Church - Washington, Wisconsin

I honestly had not even heard of the Washington Island Stavkirke (or stave church) until I received a wedding invitation from two of my dear friends who were to be married at a different stave church in Door County. This incredible building in Door County was completed in 1995 and modeled after drawings of the Borgund Stave Church in Norway, built in 1150. The building is such a remarkable piece of architecture that it feels as though it was magically transported into the woods.

2. AL. Ringling Theatre - Baraboo, Wisconsin

Founded in 1915 by AL. Ringling (of the Ringling Brothers Circus), the AL. Ringling Theatre in Baraboo is still known as America's Prettiest Playhouse. It is opulent, inspired by French opera houses, and has hosted everything from films and vaudeville to musicians. The first time I stepped foot in this space, it took my breath away. Having visited theaters in Europe, it makes sense that this grand place with all of its intricate murals and filigree was fashioned after them.

3. Milton House Museum - Milton, Wisconsin

Wisconsin has several Underground Railroad historical sites; however, The Milton House Museum is the only certified spot that is open for tours. The oldest portion of the home was built in 1844, and the tunnel under one of the estate's outbuildings was used to help shelter enslaved people seeking freedom. Having visited here, I'm grateful so much of the building was saved from dilapidation to preserve its important history.

4. American Players Theatre - Spring Green, Wisconsin

This is not the first time I've sung the praises of American Players Theatre, and it won't be the last. Out in Spring Green, you'll find one of the finest acting companies in the country, and not enough people have gone there to experience a play in the woods. You could spend the day at The House on the Rock, then see a show here. However you get there, APT is a gift that more people need to unwrap.

5. Door County Maritime Museum - Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

If, like me, you could never get enough of Gordon Lightfoot's "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald," you need to check out the Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay. You can see boats hard at work on the water outside the museum and even check out the restored tugboat, the John Purves. My favorite exhibit was definitely the wall of lanterns and seeing a massive lighthouse light up close.

Want to check out Wisconsin for yourself? Try out the Only In Your State Travel Planner to get started.