Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bayside, WI to Verona, WI
If you're looking for an unexpected road trip with unique stops, then you might want to consider embarking on a drive from Bayside, Wisconsin to Verona, Wisconsin. While this is a relatively short trip, there are numerous hidden gems to explore along the way. From quaint towns to stunning natural beauty and unique attractions, you won't be disappointed with these five unexpected places to visit.
The Route
Before diving into the five must-stop spots, let's take a look at the route itself. Starting from Bayside, the route takes you southwest to Madison, and then farther to the west, stopping in Verona. The entire trip should take around 2 hours and covers roughly 120 miles.
The Halfway Point: Sullivan, WI
Located approximately halfway between Bayside and Verona, Sullivan, WI is a small town that makes for a great pitstop on the long drive. It's a beautiful area surrounded by vast farmlands and dotted with charming antique stores, old-fashioned diners, and friendly locals.
Despite its small size, visitors can find plenty of things to do in Sullivan. For many travelers, the highlight of Sullivan is a visit to Lehman's Supper Club, a local institution that has been serving supper since 1936. Their famous Friday fish fry is a must-try; served with crispy fries, coleslaw, and a refreshing beer - it's the perfect way to refuel before hitting the road again.
1. Horicon Marsh
Horicon Marsh is one of the most beautiful and unique natural attractions in the state of Wisconsin. Located on the eastern edge of the marsh and accessible from the town of Horicon, the Visitor Center offers an educational and immersive experience for all ages. As well as interactive exhibits and educational displays, Horicon Marsh offers a wide array of activities like bird watching and hiking.
For a unique taste of the area, stop by Blanck's Supper Club in downtown Horicon. They've been serving up amazing dishes since 1961, but the real star of the show is their savory prime rib, served with roasted vegetables and a large baked potato.
2. Wisconsin Automotive Museum
Calling all auto enthusiasts! The Wisconsin Automotive Museum is your one-stop-shop for everything vintage cars. With an extensive collection of vehicles and automotive memorabilia, visitors will enjoy learning about the history of autos throughout the years. The museum is situated on the South Main Street of the charming town of Hartford, which is also filled with plenty of other unique shops, restaurants, and attractions.
While exploring Hartford, make sure to grab a bite to eat at The Mineshaft Restaurant. They offer a unique dining experience with a vast and diverse menu, but their signature dish - the Mineshaft Burger - is a must-try. Stack up hearty beef, melted cheese, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and their secret sauce for an indulgent treat.
3. House on the Rock
The House on the Rock is a true gem of the Midwest, located in the heart of beautiful countryside near Spring Green, WI. This one of a kind attraction comprises of many different collections, from mechanical music boxes and vintage machines to vintage cars. The house itself is a fascinating work of art with unparalleled architecture, built into the side of a cliff. As so much to see, visitors are advised to allow plenty of time for this stop; there is even accommodation provided for those who may want to stay longer.
Just a short drive from the House, travelers will find the Spring Green General Store, popular for its Breakfast Sandwich - customers can't stop raving about it - slices of tangy cheddar cheese and smoky bacon paired with soft, creamy eggs on a freshly baked roll.
4. Cave of The Mounds
The Cave of the Mounds is a natural wonder with fascinating geological formations unlike anything else in the world. This national landmark is situated just west of Madison and offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. A guided tour will take you through stalactites and stalagmites, carefully lit to enhance the natural beauty of the cave. Along with the Cave itself, the surrounding park area of Blue Mounds State Park is worth seeing at any time of the year.
For a yummy bite just minutes away from Cave of The Mounds, check out Gristle. From unique twists on classic burgers to specialty gourmet sandwiches, there are plenty of options to satisfy any appetite. Don't miss out on their famous mac n' cheese, topped with bacon, and served up warm and creamy.
5. The Mustard Museum
Last but not least, The National Mustard Museum is another one-of-a-kind attraction you won't want to miss. The museum is located northwest of Madison and boasts the largest collection of mustard in the world. Taste different mustard varieties, explore various exhibits, and even check out their online store for mustard souvenirs.
For a quick bite, stop by Paul's Pel'meni in downtown Madison. They offer classic dumpling soup, with hearty potatoes and tender meat. It's a can't-miss meal that's perfect for warming up on cold days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a drive from Bayside, WI to Verona, WI is full of unexpected destinations. While the horizons might seem to stretch out endlessly with farmland on either side of the highway, weaving in and out of each of these unique stops will make for an unforgettable trip. Don't miss the chance to explore the House on the Rock, visit the Wisconsin Automotive Museum, or relax near Horicon Marsh and experience these can't-miss attractions. Whether you're a Wisconsin local or an out-of-state traveler, this drive is one road trip you won't want to forget.