Article Summary: Historic Sites In Wisconsin
Historic Sites In Wisconsin. More Than Just Parks has 10 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.
I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!
I’m going to give you my list of the 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin that you’ll want to see.
To be clear, this list includes national park sites (as in sites managed by the National Park Service) as opposed to national parks. It also includes sites not managed by the National Park Service. After all, we’re more than just parks!
If you are planning a trip to Wisconsin then you might want to pick up a copy of Greater Than a Tourist- WISCONSIN DELLS WISCONSIN USA: 50 Travel Tips from a Local by A’di Dust.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Table Of Contents: Historic Sites In Winsonsin
Top 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin
10. H.H. Bennett House & Studio
Wisconsin is known for its diary farms, ginseng production, and cold winters. It is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste of America’s Midwest. But it also has some amazing historic sites too. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 10 Historic Sites In Wisconsin.
And we’re kicking off our list at #10 with the H.H. Bennett House & Studio.
The H.H. Bennett House & Studio is a historic property located in the city of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It was the home and workplace of the renowned landscape photographer Henry Hamilton Bennett, who lived there from the 1870s until his death in 1908.
H.H. Bennett is best known for his stunning photographs of the Wisconsin Dells area, which he captured using innovative techniques that allowed him to capture the unique beauty of the region.
In addition to his work as a photographer, Bennett was also an inventor and businessman, and he played a key role in developing the tourism industry in the Wisconsin Dells area.
The H.H. Bennett House & Studio was built in the 1850s and was originally a small cabin that was used as a trading post. Bennett purchased the property in the 1870s and extensively renovated it, adding a second story and a spacious studio where he could develop his photographs.
A Photography Pioneer
Bennett’s studio was equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including a darkroom, a printing press, and a large skylight that provided natural lighting for his photographs. He also developed a technique called “stop action” photography, which allowed him to capture fast-moving subjects such as riverboats and wildlife in incredible detail.
In addition to his photography work, Bennett was an active member of the Wisconsin Dells community and played a key role in promoting tourism in the area. He worked with local businesses to promote the region as a vacation destination, and his photographs were widely circulated and helped to attract visitors from across the country.
Today, the H.H. Bennett House & Studio is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the life and work of this pioneering photographer.
The property has been carefully preserved and restored to its original condition, and visitors can explore the studio, darkroom, and other areas of the house where Bennett lived and worked. The museum also houses an extensive collection of Bennett’s photographs, as well as other artifacts related to his life and work.
Things To Do
At the H.H. Bennett House & Studio, visitors can:
- Tour the historic studio and learn about the life and work of H.H. Bennett, one of America’s foremost landscape photographers.
- View the collection of original photographs, cameras, and other equipment used by Bennett during his career.
- Explore the grounds of the property, including the gardens and scenic views that were popular subjects for Bennett’s photographs.
- Participate in educational programs and workshops focused on photography, history, and related topics.
- Purchase prints and other merchandise related to Bennett and his work.
- Attend special events and exhibitions showcasing Bennett’s photography and the history of photography in general.
9. Circus World Museum
Who doesn’t love the circus? Our next historic site is a museum dedicated to preserving the history and artifacts of the American circus. It’s located in the city of Baraboo, Wisconsin, which has a rich circus heritage dating back to the 19th century. Welcome to Circus World Museum.
The museum was founded in 1959 by John M. Kelly, a local businessman who was a lifelong circus enthusiast. Kelly had been collecting circus memorabilia for years and wanted to create a place where people could learn about the rich history of the American circus.
The museum’s collection includes over 200 circus wagons, many of which were used in the famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, as well as thousands of other artifacts such as costumes, posters, and photographs.
The museum also features live circus performances, including aerial acts, clown shows, and animal performances, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Baraboo Has A Long History With The Circus
Baraboo has a long history with the circus, dating back to the 19th century when the Ringling Brothers Circus was headquartered there. The town became known as the “Circus City” and played a key role in the development of the American circus.
In the early 20th century, the Ringling Brothers Circus moved its headquarters to Sarasota, Florida, but Baraboo continued to celebrate its circus heritage. The Circus World Museum was established as a way to preserve that history and ensure that future generations could learn about the important role that the circus played in American culture.
Today, the Circus World Museum is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world. It is also an important research center for scholars and historians interested in the history of the American circus.
The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and archives provides a unique window into a fascinating chapter of American history.
8. Pabst Mansion
We move from a place which celebrates the joy that the circus brings to millions to a place which commemorates a man who found a different way to bring joy to millions. At #8 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the Pabst Mansion.
The Pabst Mansion is a historic house museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was built in the late 19th century for Captain Frederick Pabst, a prominent Milwaukee brewer and businessman.
A Short History Of The Mansion
Construction of the mansion began in 1890 and was completed in 1892. The design of the house was inspired by the Flemish Renaissance style, with a brick exterior and intricate details such as carved stone columns, ornate gables, and leaded glass windows.
The mansion was designed by the architectural firm of Ferry and Clas, who also designed many of the iconic buildings in downtown Milwaukee. It was built at a cost of over $254,000, a significant sum of money at the time, and featured 37 rooms, including a grand ballroom, a library, and a music room.
Captain Pabst and his wife, Maria, lived in the mansion with their children for over two decades, until Pabst’s death in 1904. After his death, the mansion was inherited by his son, Gustav, who lived there until 1926, when it was sold to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.
The mansion served as the home of the archbishop for several decades, and during that time, many changes were made to the house, including the addition of a chapel and the removal of some of the original furnishings.
In 1975, the Pabst Mansion was saved from demolition by a group of concerned citizens who formed the Pabst Mansion Foundation. The foundation raised funds to restore the mansion to its original condition and opened it as a museum in 1978.
Today, the Pabst Mansion is a popular tourist destination and an important cultural landmark in Milwaukee. It offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Milwaukee’s wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as the history of the Pabst family and their role in shaping the city’s brewing industry.
7. National Railroad Museum
Our next historic site features an extensive collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and artifacts related to the history of rail transportation. At #7 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the National Railroad Museum.
The National Railroad Museum is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the United States. It is located in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The museum was founded in 1956 by a group of local rail enthusiasts who wanted to create a place where people could learn about the rich history of the railroad industry in the United States. The museum’s first exhibit was a restored Chicago & North Western steam locomotive, which was donated to the museum by the railroad company.
Over 70 Locomotives & Rolling Stock
Over the years, the museum’s collection has grown to include over 70 locomotives and rolling stock, as well as thousands of artifacts related to the history of rail transportation. One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Union Pacific “Big Boy,” which is one of the largest steam locomotives ever built.
In addition to its extensive collection of exhibits, the National Railroad Museum also features a variety of educational programs and events, including train rides, workshops, and special exhibits. The museum is also home to a research library and archives, which contain a wealth of information about the history of the railroad industry in the United States.
The museum is located on the site of the former Chicago & North Western Railroad’s Green Bay yards, which played a key role in the development of the railroad industry in the Midwest. The museum’s location in Green Bay reflects the city’s rich railroad heritage, as it was a major hub for railroad activity during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Things To Do
The National Railroad Museum offers several things to see and do, including:
- Exhibits: The museum features a collection of historic trains, including steam locomotives, passenger cars, and freight trains.
- Train Rides: Visitors can take a train ride through the museum grounds on select days.
- Interactive Displays: The museum has interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the history of railroads and their impact on society.
- Special Events: The museum hosts special events throughout the year, such as model train shows, holiday-themed events, and more.
- Education Programs: The museum offers educational programs for students of all ages, including field trips and hands-on learning opportunities.
- Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other railroad-themed items.
6. Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin
Our next historic site honors the life and legacy of a woman whose best-selling books were based on her remarkable childhood experiences growing up in the American Midwest in the late 19th century.
At #6 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Wisconsin is the Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin.
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin is a historic log cabin located in Pepin, Wisconsin. It is the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder, a famous author known for her “Little House” series of books.
The cabin was built in 1874 by Laura’s father, Charles Ingalls, and served as the family’s home for several years. Laura was born in the cabin on February 7, 1867. Her family later moved to several other locations throughout the Midwest, including Kansas, Minnesota, and South Dakota, before eventually settling in Missouri.
In the 1930s, Laura began writing a series of books based on her childhood experiences, which included “Little House in the Big Woods,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “The Long Winter,” among others. The books were widely popular and have since become classic children’s literature.
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin was preserved by a group of local residents in the 1950s, who recognized the historic and cultural significance of the site. The cabin was restored to its original condition and opened to the public as a museum in 1960.
Today, visitors to the cabin can see many of the original furnishings and artifacts used by the Ingalls family, including a spinning wheel, a butter churn, and a fireplace. The museum also features exhibits and displays about the life and times of Laura Ingalls Wilder, as well as the history of the American Midwest during the late 19th century.
Top 5 Historic Sites In Wisconsin
5. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
We’re on to our Top 5 Historic Sites In Wisconsin. According to the National Park Service, our next site, the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, has quite a history indeed.
Human occupation began there as early as 10,000 years ago.
Burial mounds, campsites, chipping stations, quarries, wild rice processing areas, rock art, and village sites offer evidence of the seasonal and complex nature of prehistoric life along the rivers.
Historic American Indian archeological sites are also present and evidence the coming of European people and culture.
The St. Croix River/Brule River was a favored fur trade route from the Mississippi River to Lake Superior. Interaction took place between traders and Dakota and Ojibwe and other Indians as they traveled the rivers and traded.
In 1837 a treaty opened the area to settlement by Euro-Americans. Logging and early settlement occurred along the Riverway and is evidenced by the remains of logging dams and camps, the foundations of houses and farms, and the “trash” people left behind. More recent cultural resources are recreational homes, roadbeds and pine plantations.
Things To Do
Here are some things you can do there:
- Canoeing or Kayaking: One of the most popular activities on the riverway is canoeing or kayaking. The river offers a variety of routes with different levels of difficulty, so you can choose the one that best fits your skill level.
- Hiking: The Saint Croix Riverway has several hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the river and surrounding scenery. Some of the popular trails include the Eagle Peak Trail, which offers views of the river valley and surrounding hills, and the River Trail, which runs along the river’s edge.
- Fishing: The riverway is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike.
- Camping: The riverway has several campgrounds where you can set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors. Some of the popular campgrounds include the Namekagon River and the St. Croix River.
- Wildlife Watching: The riverway is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, otters, and beavers. You can observe these animals in their natural habitat and enjoy the beauty of the river.
- Boating: The riverway offers plenty of opportunities for boating. You can rent a boat or bring your own and explore the river at your own pace.
- Picnicking: There are several picnic areas along the riverway where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Winter Sports: In the winter, the riverway offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
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4. Harley-Davidson Museum
We’re on to our “Final Four” historic sites. At #4 is a place which motorcycle enthusiasts will particularly enjoy. It’s the Harley-Davidson Museum.
The Harley-Davidson Museum, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was established in 2008 to commemorate the rich history and heritage of the iconic motorcycle company, Harley-Davidson.
The museum showcases the history of Harley-Davidson from its beginnings in 1903 to the present day, highlighting the company’s impact on the motorcycle industry, American culture, and the world at large.
Visitors can see a collection of rare and historic motorcycles, memorabilia, and artifacts, including photographs, films, advertisements, and more.
One of the highlights of the museum is the “H-D motorcycles: An American Icon” exhibit, which showcases a diverse range of Harley-Davidson models and illustrates the evolution of the motorcycle design over the years.
Visitors can also learn about the people and events that have shaped the company and its legacy through interactive displays and multimedia presentations.
The museum also hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year, allowing visitors to learn more about the history and culture of Harley-Davidson and to connect with other fans of the brand. Overall, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-visit destination for fans of motorcycles, American history, and cultural heritage.
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3. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Our next site is a geologic wonder. At #3 on our list of the Best Historic Sites In Idaho is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile hiking trail located in Wisconsin. The trail was established in 1980 to commemorate and preserve the geological and natural features created by the last Ice Age.
The Ice Age lasted from approximately 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago and had a significant impact on the landscape of Wisconsin and the surrounding region. During the Ice Age, massive glaciers covered much of North America, shaping the landscape through erosion, deposition, and other geological processes.
The trail was established to highlight and preserve the unique features of the landscape that were created during the Ice Age, including kettles (depressions formed by melting glaciers), moraines (ridges of glacial debris), and eskers (sinuous ridges formed by streams flowing beneath glaciers).
The trail is divided into several segments, each of which showcases the diverse geological and natural features of the region.
In addition to highlighting the geological features of the landscape, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is also an important recreational resource for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
The trail is maintained by a partnership between the National Park Service and local volunteers, who work to protect and preserve the trail for future generations.
Ice Age Trail Facts
In doing my research, I came across some fascinating facts associated with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail courtesy of the Ice Age Alliance. They include the following:
- The Trail is managed by a partnership among the National Park Service, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Ice Age Trail Alliance.
- The Ice Age Trail is open for hiking, backpacking and snowshoeing. Many segments support cross-country skiing, too.
- The Trail is not yet complete.
- More than 600 miles are yellow-blazed Ice Age Trail segments, and more than 500 miles of unmarked connecting routes link the blazed segments.
- The entire route is about 1,200 miles long.
- The Trail’s western terminus is in Interstate State Park in St. Croix Falls, Polk County. It overlooks the St. Croix River and our neighbors in Minnesota. The Trail’s eastern terminus is in Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay, Door County.
- The Ice Age Trail is built and maintained largely by volunteers. (Source: Ice Age Alliance)
Outdoor Activities | Ice Age National Scenic Trail
While the trail is primarily enjoyed for hiking and backpacking, other activities include: (1) Birdwatching and Nature Walks, (2) Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing, (3) Stargazing and Wildlife Viewing, (4) Camping , (5) Hunting and Fishing (during the proper seasons), (6) Biking, (7) Horseback Riding and (8) Snowmobiling.
If you’re camping, be advised that in some areas camping is allowed anywhere along the trail; in others only at designated sites.
These facilities may be spaced quite far apart. Along such segments it may be difficult to find any place to camp legally. You should plan your multi-day hike carefully. (Source: NPS)
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2. Milwaukee Art Museum
We’re down to our final 2 historic sites in Wisconsin. In the runner-up spot at #2 is one of America’s finest art museums. Welcome to the Milwaukee Art Museum.
The Milwaukee Art Museum is a prominent art museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1888 as the Milwaukee Art Association, and it became a museum in 1957.
The museum’s original building, designed by prominent architect E.T. Mix, was completed in 1911. The building was expanded several times over the years, and in 1975 a new wing was added to the museum.
In 2001, the museum underwent a major renovation and expansion, which included the addition of the Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion, a dramatic structure that features a movable “sunscreen” that can open and close like the wings of a bird.
The Milwaukee Art Museum’s collection features over 30,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
The collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Winslow Homer, and Andy Warhol, as well as significant collections of American folk art, German Expressionist prints, and Haitian art.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Milwaukee Art Museum also features a variety of temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year. The museum hosts a range of events and programs, including lectures, workshops, and film screenings.
Things To Do
Here are some of the things to see and do at the museum:
- Art Exhibitions: The museum features a diverse range of art exhibitions, including contemporary and modern art, decorative arts, and more.
- Collection Highlights: Visitors can see highlights from the museum’s collection, including works by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and other famous artists.
- Special Exhibitions: The museum hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by artists from around the world and showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums.
- Architecture: The museum is housed in the iconic Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture and design of the building.
- Education Programs: The museum offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including tours, workshops, and lectures.
- Shop and Café: The museum has a shop and café, offering unique gifts, books, and refreshments.
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1. Cave Of The Mounds
As our #1 Historic Site In Wisconsin, More Than Just Parks has selected the Cave of the Mounds.
If you like caves then you’ll love Cave of the Mounds. It takes its name from the Blue Mounds, two large hills which have long been Wisconsin landmark features.
The West Mound, at 1716 feet, is the highest point in Southern Wisconsin; the East Mound reaches 1489 feet. Cave of the Mounds lies under the southern slope of the East Mound.
The Cave was formed within sedimentary rock, a limestone made of compacted seashells. This rock dates back over 400 million years to the Ordovician Period of the earth’s geologic history.
The cave’s beauty comes from its many varieties of mineral formations called speleothems.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences considers the Cave of the Mounds to be “the significant cave of the upper Midwest” because of its beauty.
It is promoted as the “jewel box” of major American caves.
Things To Do
Here are some of the things to see and do at Cave of the Mounds:
- Guided Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, where they will learn about the geology, history, and features of the cave, including its rare formations and unique ecosystem.
- Self-Guided Tours: The cave also offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the cave at their own pace and take in the natural beauty at their leisure.
- Educational Programs: The cave offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, including school field trips, summer camps, and more.
- Nature Trails: The cave is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including nature trails and picnic areas, perfect for exploring and enjoying the surrounding area.
- Gift Shop: The cave has a gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to geology and the natural sciences.
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List Of Historic Sites In Wisconsin
- Cave Of The Mounds
- Milwaukee Art Museum
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail
- Harley-Davidson Museum
- Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
- Laura Ingalls Wilder Cabin
- National Railroad Museum
- Pabst Mansion
- Circus World Museum
- H.H. Bennett House & Studio
Why Trust Us About Historic Sites In Wisconsin?
We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.
You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.
We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.
And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.
Meet The Parks Brothers
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Related Links
Wisconsin National Parks: 4 FUN Wisconsin National Parks
America’s National Parks: All 63 US National Parks Ranked By Experts
National Monuments: Ultimate List Of National Monuments
National Landmarks: 25 Bucket List Famous Landmarks In America (Must-SEE)
Revolutionary War Sites: 10 BEST Revolutionary War Sites In America
Civil War Sites: 10 BEST Civil War Sites In America
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