The Badger State has a ton of character, thanks largely to its wonderful citizens. And the ingenuity of the wonderful folks who live here is one of the reason that we have so many interesting, quirky, and even kitschy sights and landmarks to offer travelers. To honor these fascinating manmade wonders, we've put together an itinerary that will take you to half a dozen of our favorite roadside attractions in the state. The whole kitschy road trip through Wisconsin covers about 637 miles in just under 11 hours of driving time. You can follow our itinerary - or customize it however you like - in Google Maps.
1. World's Largest Culver's - Edgerton
There's no restaurant chain more distinctively Wisconsin than Culver's, so it's only fitting to start off this Wisconsin road trip at one of these beloved eateries - the world's largest, in fact. You'll find the gargantuan Culver's of Newville just off of Interstate 90, south of Madison, in Edgerton. This massive restaurant even has a conference space. So, have a look around, then grab a Butterburger and some custard, and let's hit the road.
2. Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells, as anyone who has visited will attest, is pretty much its own thing. Chock full of quirky attractions and tourist traps, it's clearly the kitsch capital of Wisconsin. A drive along the Lake Delton strip - from the Kalahari to Mexicali Rose - and then into the downtown Wisconsin Dells business area will show you all you need to know.
3. Big Orange Moose - Black River Falls
Another 90 or so minutes west of Wisconsin Dells, in Black River Falls, you'll see a very curious sight on the north side of Interstate 94 - and you'll definitely want to stop. At exit 116, there's a giant orange moose standing near a pond with other woodland creatures, like a massive deer. They're on the grounds of a motel with a restaurant inspired by the statue (or perhaps vice versa) - The Big Orange Moose. Stop in for lunch or dinner, and then wander over and size up the massive moose.
4. World's Largest Fiberglass Muskie - Hayward
Next, our itinerary will take you to Hayward and the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum. Of course, you'll want to see all that the museum has to offer, but it's a stop on this road trip because it's home to the "world's largest fiberglass muskie." At more than four stories high and half a city block long, this beast is truly impressive - you can actually walk inside this leviathan and survey your surroundings from its maw.
By the time you reach Hayward, you'll probably be ready for a break. Fortunately, there are several excellent hotel options in and around the town, so you can relax, explore the area and hit the road refreshed.
5. The Hodag - Rhinelander
On the next stop, you'll visit a cryptid of Wisconsin's Northwoods - the infamous Hodag. First "discovered" in 1893, the Hodag has since become intertwined with the history and cultural identity of Rhinelander. You'll find Hodags and Hodag references all over town, but a stop at the statue outside the Rhinelander Chamber/Visitor Center offers the best photo op with one of the beasts.
6. Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant, Butik & Stabbur - Sister Bay
The final - and longest - stretch of this road trip will land you in Sister Bay at the iconic Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant, Butik & Stabbur. This eatery has been a Door County institution for decades and is definitely a worthy stop for the food alone. The reason it's included in this particular itinerary, though, is that the restaurant's roof is covered in grass - grass kept trim by a herd of goats that hang out on the roof and graze all day. Only in Wisconsin, right?
We think this road trip is a wonderful way to explore all the quirks and wonderful surprises the Badger State has to offer. How many of the places on this kitschy road trip through Wisconsin have you visited? Are there any you would add? Let us know in the comments!
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