Swiss, Norwegian & Wisconsin Proud
A 4-Day Heartland Loop
Itinerary Summary
Embark on a four-day journey through South Central Wisconsin, where history, culture, and culinary experiences intertwine to create unforgettable memories. Discover vintage automobiles, savor award-winning cheese, and immerse yourself in the stories of early settlers while sampling the region’s finest foods. This itinerary invites you to explore the diverse offerings of this enchanting area, making it aperfect getaway for travelers seeking both excitement and discovery.
Day 1 – Beloit
Begin your tour in vibrant Beloit, a city blending industrial heritage with modern charm. Enjoy a guided city highlights drive, including the Ironworks campus and beautifully redeveloped riverfront.
Just across the state line, step into decades of American history at the Historic Auto Attractions. Explore dazzling collections of vintage automobiles, presidential memorabilia, Hollywood displays, and iconic vehicles from television and film. This museum is ideal for groups, with plenty of time for self-guided exploration.
During the summer months, enjoy an afternoon or evening at the ballpark to root on the Beloit Sky Carb (the minor league affiliate of the Miami Marlins). The team is known for its talented players and energetic performances, making every game a memorable experience. From the crack of the bat to the cheers of the crowd, attending a Beloit Sky Carp game is sure to deliver on the excitement and entertainment.
During the holiday season, the ABC Supply Stadium is adorned with over one million lights and displays, festive food and drinks, both on-field and concourse holiday walk-through experience!
Day 2 – Mineral Point, Monroe, New Glarus
Journey to one of Wisconsin’s oldest and most artistic small towns, rich with Cornish and early-settler history. Tour beautifully preserved stone cottages and learn about the immigrant miners who helped build Wisconsin’s early communities. Costumed interpreters and detailed exhibits bring the 19th century to life.
Gotta stop for some Wisconsin Cheese! Travel to Monroe and tour Alp and Dell Cheese, where your group will learn about traditional cheesemaking and enjoy sampling award-winning Swiss-style cheeses. The attached Emmi Roth facility provides an up-close look at production.
Head up the road to New Glarus for a visit to the Chalet of the Golden Fleece, honoring the Swiss Heritage of this quaint town. The museum is filled with artifacts from the Swiss Alps and around the world. The authentic Swiss chalet is one of only three in Wisconsin. Guests will learn about mountain life in the Swiss Alps, as well as view artifacts from around the world. You’ll be delighted by some of nation’s finest Swiss folk art and wood carvings
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Day 3 – Fort Atkinson, Stoughton
Explore the historic charm of Fort Atkinson with a visit to the Hoard Historical Museum, which will bring Fort Atkinson’s rich history to life, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. You’ll explore engaging displays on local heritage, including exhibits on the Black Hawk War, early settlers, and the National Dairy Shrine. The shrine features a multimedia show that captures the sights and sounds of dairy farming: past, present, and future. Bring your coolers and stop in at the Jones Market for a tour and sampling of some of the best meats in the state. You’ll find exclusive Jones Market meats made on-site, like fresh brats and a complete freezer section of Jones products, and a large selection of specialty foods from the Badger state. Enjoy a delicious Cedar Crest ice cream at the Jones Dairy Bar.
Experience the Norwegian heart of South-Central Wisconsin. Learn all about Stoughton’s historic ties to Norway at Livsreise Norwegian Heritage Center. Immerse yourself in the hands-on exhibits, see interpretations of the journey from Norway, and learn the stories of individual immigrants coming to America and calling Stoughton home. Visit historic downtown Stoughton, known for its Norwegian culture, boutique shops, and the iconic Stoughton Opera House. Enjoy free time to browse or arrange a guided cultural tour.
Day 4 – Sun Prairie
Experience engaging exhibits that tell the story of Sun Prairie’s early settlers, cultural heritage, community traditions, and its most famous citizen, world-renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Because of that connection, art can be found literally at almost every corner, with over a dozen murals throughout this quaint town.
Visit Sassy Cow Creamery and take in a farm tour, watch them bottle milk and make 20+ varieties of ice cream, which you will want to get a dish!
Fun photo op for your group awaits at Exit 126 in Vienna with their “mascots” Pinkie the Elephant and Sissy the Cow, both massive fiberglass statues.
Before heading home, stop in a J Henry & Sons Bourbon for a tour that includes a visit to Henry Farms, production tour, sensory bourbon nosing & tasting. Cheers.
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