This Oversized Attraction in Wisconsin Begs for You to Pull Over

Almost exactly halfway between my childhood home in Wisconsin and my current one in Chicago, there is a castle. Its looming, cream-colored brick turret, peaking over the side of the highway in the distance, lets me know that I'm halfway to my destination. While others greet this cheesy, oversized attraction with peckish delight, I do so with fervor. Mars Cheese Castle isn't just a touristy treat; it's practically a Wisconsin welcome wagon all dressed up to keep you going in style. This is where you'll feel like a king among snacks.

Of course, Mars Cheese Castle has more cheese than a mouse would know what to do with. They have over 700 varieties, ranging from smooth and creamy port wine to the irresistible squeak of fresh cheese curds. Even the stingiest of cheese fans will find at least one thing here to enjoy. As for this fried cheese curd fanatic, one more order for the road! But this former Wisconsinite doesn't just want you to stop here for the cheese. Oh no. Because this Wisconsin attraction, like the state itself, has far more than just cheese on offer.

The entire store is a smorgasbord of all things Wisconsin. For beer fans, that means making an over-the-state-line run for Spotted Cow. The fan-favorite beer from New Glarus Brewing Company is only available in the Dairy State. I have friends who would happily drive up to Wisconsin just for several cases of the ale nectar. Though I am not a fan of beer myself, there are plenty of other things on offer at the mighty castle for the rest of us.

Like Wisconsin's own Cedar Crest Ice Cream, you can't be surprised that another milk product is a highlight here. Made in Cedarburg, this frozen treat is always worth stopping for, especially if you've been stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on I-94 during a Midwestern heat wave.

Unlike cheese and beer, there is one more major highlight that the cheese castle has, which some may be unfamiliar with—the kringle. A ring-shaped, flaky pastry, kringles are a Wisconsin staple, so much so that they are the state's official pastry! These pastries, originally from Denmark, are often spotted on tables for Christmas or Easter morning. However, there's no reason you shouldn't enjoy a gooey kringle any time of year. They come filled with different fruits and nuts, though the cream cheese filling is my personal favorite.

I'll always stop for a good snack. However, I also love roadside attractions. They're one of the best parts of a road trip. And Wisconsin has some hum-dingers! From the too-cute Pinkie the Elephant in DeForest to the state's other kitschy roadside finds like the Hodag, I can't resist them. Sure, this castle might be less authentic than Medieval Times an hour down the road, but they're both equally cheesy. Mars' advantage is just a lot more actual cheese—which makes it my knight in shining armor.