Museums, Parks, and Landmarks: A Road Trip from Butler to Ripon, Wisconsin

Are you planning a road trip from Butler to Ripon, Wisconsin? If so, you’re in for an exciting journey with many attractions to see along the way! From museums to parks and iconic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the top places to visit on this Wisconsin road trip.

Did you know that Wisconsin has over 15,000 lakes? Many of them can be found along the route from Butler to Ripon, making it a popular destination for anglers and water enthusiasts.

Halfway between Butler and Ripon, lies the charming town of West Bend, WI. Known for its nature trails, historic sites, and local shops and restaurants, it's an excellent place to break up the drive.

The trip from Butler to Ripon is approximately 80 miles and takes about 1.5 hours of driving. However, we recommend taking your time to explore the various attractions along the way.

Top 5 Places to Visit on the Road Trip

1. Harley-Davidson Museum: Located in Milwaukee, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-see for motorcycle enthusiasts. The museum features interactive exhibits that showcase the history of the iconic American brand, allowing visitors to learn about the manufacturing process and see vintage motorcycles up close. Be sure to check out the outdoor patio and restaurant, too!

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Harley-Davidson factory (located just a few miles from the museum) to see how the motorcycles are made.

2. Lapham Peak: With over 1,000 acres of rolling hills and forest, Lapham Peak is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Visitors can hike, bike, or ski on the many nature trails, climb the observation tower for a panoramic view, or participate in educational programs about the local wildlife.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Be sure to check out the Homestead Hollow picnic area for a scenic lunch or snack break.

3. Horicon Marsh: This National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 300 species of birds and other wildlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Visitors can hike on the many trails, take a boat tour of the marsh, or attend educational programs at the visitor center.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: If you’re visiting in the fall, be sure to attend the annual Horicon Marsh Bird Festival (usually held in May), which features guided birdwatching tours, educational programs, and family activities.

4. Wisconsin State Fair: If you happen to be traveling during late August, the Wisconsin State Fair is a can’t-miss event. With its iconic cream puffs, carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits, the state fair is a celebration of all things Wisconsin.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Don’t forget to try the cheese on a stick and watch the cream puff making demonstration!

5. EAA Aviation Museum: Located in Oshkosh, WI, the EAA Aviation Museum is a fascinating museum for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. With over 200 aircraft on display (including historic planes, military jets, and experimental aircraft), visitors can learn about the history of aviation from the Wright brothers to modern day.

   • Point of Interest Recommendation: Check the museum’s website for events and workshops (such as aircraft tours, flight simulators, and build-a-plane programs) that are offered throughout the year.

This road trip is an excellent opportunity to explore some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks in Wisconsin. With so many things to see and do, be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey!