The Ultimate Wisconsin Hidden Gem Road Trip Will Take You To 8 Incredible Little-Known Spots In The State

Road trips in Wisconsin are the perfect way to see the state’s best sites. So, the next time you’ve got a day or two to kill, why not seek out the best hidden gems in Wisconsin? If this sounds like your idea of a good time, you’ll definitely want to check out the route we’ve mapped out. It’ll lead you to eight amazing hidden places in Wisconsin that you’re sure to fall in love with.

From breathtaking beauty to train-themed accommodations, this 798-mile route has got a little bit of everything!

Don’t have 15+ hours to spare? No problem. You can alter the route to suit your needs.

1. Hughes Home Maid Chocolate Shop (Oshkosh)

Typically, we wouldn’t advise you to go into a stranger’s basement to purchase candy; however, when Hughes Home Maid Chocolate Shop is involved, it’s completely acceptable. Yep, that’s right; this family-run sweet shop is tucked away in the basement of a residence, where it’s been since opening in 1940, making it one of the best hidden gems in Wisconsin. Said to whip up the "world’s best chocolate," it’s the perfect place to stock up on some sweets for the journey ahead. (Remember, though, Hughes Home Maid Chocolate Shop is open seasonally, September – May.)

2. Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue and Educational Center (Rock Springs)

Lions and tigers and…leopards, oh my! A must-visit for animal lovers of all ages, Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue and Educational Center was established in 2005 to provide a safe place for abused, neglected, and unwanted big cats. The sanctuary is open to the public for self-guided tours as well as specialty tours, such as the Morning Feeding Tour. It's truly one of the best hidden places in Wisconsin.

3. FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard (Sparta)

Wisconsin road trips don't usually include stops at graveyards; however, this isn't your typical graveyard. Meaning, FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard doesn’t contain tombstones. Instead, it’s filled with discarded fiberglass molds in just about every shape and size imaginable – from life-sized elephants to characters from classic movies. Even better, FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard is free to visit.

4. Caboose Cabins (Sparta)

If you want to turn in for the night, Caboose Cabins is a great place to do so. Also among the best hidden gems in Wisconsin, it’s a little-known spot that offers visitors the chance to stay aboard a 1968 SOO-Line caboose. And unlike most other renovated cabooses, it’s retained many of its original features, allowing visitors to see what a real working caboose once looked like.

5. Kinstone (Fountain City)

Unbeknownst to many, Wisconsin is home to its very own version of Stonehenge. Described as a "modern megalithic garden," it features giant, towering stones – some of which stand up to 23 feet tall and weigh up to 35 tons! The stone creation can be viewed seasonally, May – October. It's one of the most unique hidden places in Wiscosnin.

6. The Watershed Cafe (Osceola)

One of the tastiest hidden gems in Wisconsin, The Watershed Café is a great place to stop for a bite to eat. The rustic eatery overlooks a waterfall, which means great views are always on the menu. And those views are only made better by the café’s fresh, locally sourced fare.

7. Houghton Falls State Natural Area (Washburn)

A great place to get in touch with nature, this 76-acre natural area boasts a gorge, cliffs, and several waterfalls, including its namesake 20-foot waterfall. It’s also home to Echo Dells, a sandstone gorge that echoes like crazy – hence the name. Of all the hidden places in Wisconsin, it's one of the most unique.

8. Kovac Planetarium (Rhinelander)

After being closed for several years, Kovac Planetarium is open once again, which means you’ve been granted a second chance to visit the "world’s largest mechanical globe planetarium." Check out the Kovac Planetarium website for information on hours, admission, and more.

You can also call (715) 490-6956.

So, what do you think? Is this one of the best road trips in Wisconsin? Did you we miss your favorite hidden gems in Wisconsin? Whatever it is, tell us!

Looking for another fun route that will show you the best of the Badger State? Check out these unforgettable Wisconsin road trips.