Wisconsin Road Trip: Appleton to Wauwatosa's Must-See Attractions

Wisconsin is a beautiful state to travel to, and driving from Appleton to Wauwatosa is one of the most scenic routes to take. With several attractions to offer, this trip is perfect for those who want to explore the state's natural wonders, history, and amazing culture. Discover the best spots to stop for on your route in this blog post.

Must-See Place #1: High Cliff State Park

Start your journey at High Cliff State Park, which is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This peaceful park is situated nine miles northeast of Appleton, and it covers over 1,187 acres of land on the northeastern shore of Lake Winnebago. Visitors can hike and explore the many forested trails, with a magnificent view of the lake and limestone cliff formations.

One of the park's most famous spots is the High Cliff Mounds, believed to have been constructed by the Late Woodland people between 1000 and 1880 AD. This spot is an ideal place to capture a beautiful photograph, with an impressive view of the lake. Additionally, the park offers several recreational facilities like camping, fishing, and picnicking; excellent for family and friends' bonding.

Must-See Place #2: West Bend Antiques Mall & Museum

As you get on Highway 41 northbound, your next stop is in West Bend, and at the top of the list is the West Bend Antiques Mall & Museum. This vast three-story warehouse-style building is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and unique finds. With over 90 dealers displaying quality antiques and collectibles, the mall is a perfect place for antique lovers to indulge their passion.

Apart from antique shopping, visitors can also explore the museum, which features vintage toys, clothing, and homeware items from the 1800s to the 1980s. A fun fact about this town is that it is home to the original West Bend Company, established in 1911, which produced aluminum cookware and small appliances such as popcorn poppers. Take some time to learn about the town's history, and you won't regret your stop in West Bend.

Must-See Place #3: Jail House Inn

The perfect place to stay in Port Washington is the Jailhouse Inn. Once a former Ozaukee County jail and sheriff's residence, it has been converted into a charming bed and breakfast with rustic yet cozy rooms. It's located just off Lake Michigan and is walking distance to the town center, marina, and historical museum.

The Jailhouse Inn features 10 rooms and suites. Each has a unique theme and character while still retaining the former jail's architecture and rustic charm. The common areas include a sitting room with a gas fireplace and a dining room with featured jail bars. Don't forget to chat with the Inn's owners, who are friendly hosts willing to recommend the best places to visit and dine in town.

Must-See Place #4: Milwaukee Art Museum

After driving 25 miles south on the I-43, you'll arrive in Milwaukee, a vibrant city popular for its brewing heritage and its art museum. The Milwaukee Art Museum features a vast collection of over 40,000 works of art, including contemporary art, decorative arts, folk and outsider art, and photography.

The museum is not only famous for its artworks, but its architecture, which features the Quadracci Pavilion, a structural masterpiece designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. The pavilion's movable wings open and close throughout the day, giving a beautiful experience of art and nature. Spend an afternoon exploring the galleries before heading out for the evening.

Must-See Place #5: Harley-Davidson Museum

End your journey with a bang by visiting the Harley-Davidson Museum in Wauwatosa, located just seven miles west of Milwaukee. This museum houses a vast collection of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, exhibits, photographs, and memorabilia to impress motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The exhibits showcase the company's history, iconic products, and engineering innovations. Visitors can enjoy the interactive and hands-on experiences like sitting on a Harley motorcycle or customizing their bike with virtual accessories. The museum also includes a restaurant, café, and the retail shop with exclusive Harley-Davidson merchandise. Plan for an entire day to explore all this museum has to offer.

The Conclusion

Driving from Appleton to Wauwatosa is an experience that gives you the chance to admire Wisconsin's natural beauty and history. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, antique lover, art aficionado, or a motorcycle fan, there is something for everyone on this road trip. Make sure to visit all five of the places mentioned in this blog post. They are must-sees that you won't regret. Regardless of your interests, you'll appreciate all that Wisconsin has to offer along this route. Don't hesitate to schedule your next trip; it's going to be an unforgettable experience.