Wisconsin is known for many things — cheese, football, fishing — but “romance” is not really one of them. And that’s a shame. Because Wisconsin is beautiful — full of natural wonders and scenic places perfect for exploring with a partner. And its cold climate encourages lots of snuggling by a warm fireplace, preferably at a cozy cabin. And while it’s not wine country, Wisconsin’s many breweries make for a pretty fun and down-to-earth kind of date. We’re big fans — and you and your sweetheart will be too, once you check out these 10 unique dates in Wisconsin:

1. Cave of the Mounds
Edward Brunton/Google Local
It's dark and romantic, and a total stunner -- Cave of the Mounds will totally wow your date. This natural limestone cave is located near Blue Mounds, and features some truly dazzling mineral formations.
2. Delta Diner
Delta Diner/Facebook
So usually a diner wouldn't make a date list, but this diner happens to be an authentic diner like back how they used to be. And wasn't everything just more romantic in the 1950s? And that isn't even the coolest part. This diner is located in the middle of the woods. Literally. It's in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, one of the most scenic places in the state. How's that for romantic?
3. Company Brewing
Company Brewing/Facebook
Cheers neighborhood pub -- but make it romantic. Wisconsin is well-known for its breweries, and Company Brewing is one of the best. Located in the heart of Milwaukee’s charming Riverwest neighborhood, this neighborhood hub brews excellent craft beer to go with its delicious menu. The old-brick building is rustic and charming, and in the summer, you can enjoy a brew and live music in the outdoor patio, which is adorned with magical twinkle lights.
4. Apostle Islands
Jim Sorbie/Flickr
Take your date up to Bayfield, the gateway to the Apostle Islands. Tour by kayak, and, if you're feeling extra adventurous, camp there. Apostle Islands are truly one of Wisconsin's most glorious natural wonder, and the perfect date for outdoorsey couples.
5. Peninsula Players Theatre
Peninsula Players Theatre/Facebook
A date at the theatre is always nice, but especially splendid if it's under the stars. In operation since 1935, the Peninsula Players perform the classics with Wisconsin's glorious wilderness as their stage. (Twinkle lights included.)

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6. The Osceola & St. Croix Railway
The Osceola & St. Croix Dinner Train/Facebook
There's simply nothing more romantic than an old-fashioned train. The Osceola & St. Croix Railway will take you and your boo on a scenic trip, while you enjoy a champagne brunch or candlelit dinner.
7. Horicon National Wildlife Refuge
traveling_jennyd/TripAdvisor
There's just something so inherently romantic about long walks in nature. This wildlife refuge is home to loads of wildlife, and you might not see it all in a day. Definitely go out for a sunset walk on one of the park's trails -- with Mother Nature as your wingwoman, you're in for a super romantic night in the Wisconsin wilderness.
8. Mt. Horeb
joelrivlin/Flickr
So why would you take your date on a town filled with trolls? Well, because there is so much more to the town than the trolls (and that part is kind of charming, actually). The downtown area has several date-worthy restaurants, plus adorable little stores perfect for window shopping. Mt. Horeb is a quaint small town to visit with your partner.
9. The Thirsty Duck
The Thirsty Duck/Facebook
Bowling is perhaps the most classic "date" around -- and The Thirsty Duck is not like the neighborhood alley you took your Junior High girlfriend to. The Thirsty Duck is delightfully quirky and a lot of fun for a special date night. The food's pretty stellar, too.
10. NEW Zoo
NEW Zoo/Facebook
Lots of people go on dates at zoos. But the NEW Zoo isn't your ordinary zoo. First, you can actually feed the giraffes. But also, there are other features making this zoo more of an experience -- like a zipline.

Did we give you any date night inspo? Spice things up with these 10 unique dates in Wisconsin — you can thank us later. And if you’re feeling extra sweet, check out this Wisconsin dessert trail road trip, which features some of the best cake, chocolate, and sweets in the state!

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More to Explore

Unique Dates in Wisconsin

Sarah | February 03, 2021

What are some of the best restaurants in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s dining scene remains wildly underrated (and yes -- we do eat more than just cheese). There are tons of incredible eateries with exceptional meals, from farm-to-table fare to beloved, only-in-Wisconsin kind of dishes. If you're into brunch, you can't beat The Robin's Nest (best omelets in the state, period). For fine dining, Vino in the Valley will make you feel like you're in California's wine country -- but better, because: Wisconsin. And Il Ritrovo is the very best pizza around.

What are some scenic places in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is so stunningly beautiful, and these 13 jaw-dropping places are just the beginning. One of the most unique scenic spots in the state is Washington Island. It's only accessible by ferry, and is a total under-the-radar gem. There's Scandinavian architecture (including a Medieval-style church), stunning beaches, and breathtaking natural beauty.

What's it like to live in Wisconsin?

Sometimes living in Wisconsin feels like being in on a secret the rest of the world doesn’t know about. So many folks dismiss the Midwest as "flyover country" -- but they are totally missing out. Ours is a state of immense beauty, with big-hearted people steeped in Midwest hospitality. We take a lot of pride in our great state; here are just a few of the reasons why.

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Featured Addresses
Cave of the Mounds Road, Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, USA
Delta Diner, 14385 Co Hwy H, Mason, WI 54856, USA
735 E Center St, Milwaukee, WI 53212, USA
Apostle Islands, Wisconsin, USA
4351 Peninsula Players Rd, Fish Creek, WI 54212, USA
Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway, 114 Depot Rd, Osceola, WI 54020, USA
Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, Headquarters Road, Mayville, WI, USA
Mount Horeb, Mt Horeb, WI 53572, USA
N64W23180 Main St, Sussex, WI 53089, USA
NEW Zoo & Adventure Park, 4378 Reforestation Rd, Green Bay, WI 54313, USA