Two Takes on Wisconsin: City Adventures and Rural Retreats

Including Milwaukee & La Valle

Wisconsin, often referred to as “America’s Dairyland,” is a diverse and vibrant state located in the Midwest region of the United States. Wisconsin is blessed with diverse landscapes, including rolling farmland, lush forests, sparkling lakes, and scenic rivers. Visitors can explore outdoor attractions such as the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Devil’s Lake State Park, and the Wisconsin Dells, known for its sandstone formations and water parks. With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and forests, Wisconsin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and camping in the state’s many parks and recreation areas.


  1. Regions
  2. The Same
    1. Cheese and Dairy:
  3. The DINKs
    1. Southern Region
      1. Milwaukee
  4. The Family
    1. Southern Region
      1. La Valle
  5. Summary

Regions

Wisconsin can be divided into five major regions. These regions collectively showcase Wisconsin’s diverse geography, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities, making it a state rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences.

  • Southern Wisconsin: This region includes cities like Madison, the state capital, and Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin. It is characterized by rolling hills, farmland, and urban centers known for their cultural attractions, universities, and historic sites.
  • Northern Wisconsin: Known for its dense forests, pristine lakes, and outdoor recreational opportunities, Northern Wisconsin includes popular destinations like the Wisconsin Dells, Door County, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. It is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Central Wisconsin: Located between the northern and southern regions, Central Wisconsin features diverse landscapes including lakes, rivers, and farmland. Cities like Wausau and Stevens Point are cultural and economic hubs in this area.
  • Eastern Wisconsin: This region borders Lake Michigan and includes cities such as Green Bay, Appleton, and Sheboygan. It is known for its scenic coastline, maritime history, and agricultural heritage.
  • Western Wisconsin: Stretching along the Mississippi River, Western Wisconsin is characterized by river valleys, bluffs, and scenic landscapes. Cities like La Crosse and Eau Claire are prominent in this region, offering outdoor activities and cultural attractions.

The Same

When it comes to their visits to Wisconsin, both the Dinks and the Family found a familiar common ground: the food, specifically cheese. It’s the one thing you have to try when in Wisconsin.

Cheese and Dairy:

Wisconsin is famous for its cheese and dairy products, earning it the nickname “America’s Dairyland.” Visitors can sample a wide variety of cheeses, including cheddar, Swiss, and Colby, at local creameries and cheese shops throughout the state. The Wisconsin Cheese Trail offers a self-guided tour of some of the state’s best cheese producers.

Whether indulging in cheese curds, savoring a creamy mac and cheese, or sampling artisanal cheeses from local dairies, Wisconsin’s cheese offerings are unmatched. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or just appreciate good food, Wisconsin’s cheese culture is an essential part of any visit to the state.

The DINKs

Southern Region

Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a vibrant and diverse city located on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Milwaukee has a rich brewing heritage and is known as the “Brew City” due to its historic breweries and thriving craft beer scene. Visitors can explore iconic breweries such as MillerCoors and Pabst, as well as numerous craft breweries, brewpubs, and beer gardens throughout the city. Milwaukee’s scenic lakefront is a hub of activity, offering attractions such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, Discovery World Science Center, and the Henry Maier Festival Park, home to Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival. Visitors can also enjoy scenic parks, beaches, and trails along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Sports and Recreation:

Sports fans will find plenty to cheer about in Milwaukee, with professional sports teams such as the Milwaukee Brewers (MLB) and Milwaukee Bucks (NBA) calling the city home. . Of course we had to see a game and it was baseball season when we visited so we got to see the Brewers play. The Milwaukee Brewers, affectionately known as the “Brew Crew,” have a rich history and a passionate fan base that stretches far and wide. The team’s home games are played at American Family Field, formerly known as Miller Park, a state-of-the-art stadium with a retractable roof that allows for year-round baseball regardless of the weather. The Brewers have experienced both triumphs and challenges over the years, but their dedicated fans remain loyal and enthusiastic, cheering them on through every inning. With iconic mascots like Bernie Brewer and the famous Racing Sausages, attending a Brewers game is not just about baseball—it’s a fun-filled experience that brings people together to celebrate the spirit of camaraderie and community. Whether you’re enjoying a cold beer, savoring a bratwurst, or simply cheering on the home team, a day at the ballpark with the Milwaukee Brewers is an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

The Uber Taproom and Cheese Bar offers a unique and delicious experience for visitors to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Located in the heart of the city, this cozy and inviting establishment combines the best of craft beer with an extensive selection of artisanal cheeses. Upon entering the Uber Taproom, guests are greeted by the warm and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic decor and friendly staff ready to assist. The highlight of the experience is the impressive selection of craft beers on tap, featuring a rotating lineup of local and regional brews, as well as popular favorites from around the country. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy tasting flights or choose from a variety of draft pours to pair with their cheese selections.

Cheese tasting at the Cheese Mart in Wisconsin is a delightful experience that captures the essence of the state’s rich cheese-making tradition. Located in the heart of Milwaukee, the Cheese Mart offers visitors a chance to sample an impressive array of cheeses, including locally made varieties and artisanal creations. Upon entering the Cheese Mart, visitors are greeted by the enticing aroma of cheese and the sight of rows of cheese wheels and displays showcasing the best of Wisconsin’s dairy products. Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to guide visitors through the tasting process, offering insights into the different types of cheese, their flavors, and the cheese-making process. The tasting experience typically involves sampling a variety of cheeses, from creamy bries to sharp cheddars and tangy blues. Visitors can explore cheeses made from cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and even sheep’s milk, each offering its own unique flavor profile and texture.

Beer and Brewing:

Wisconsin has a rich brewing heritage and is home to numerous craft breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs. Visitors can explore beer destinations such as Milwaukee, home to iconic breweries like MillerCoors and Pabst, and Madison, which boasts a vibrant craft beer scene.

The Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this iconic brewery offers visitors a glimpse into the rich brewing heritage of the area. Once the corporate offices of the Pabst Brewing Company, the Best Place is now a museum and event space where guests can explore historic rooms, artifacts, and exhibits related to the brewery’s history. One of the highlights of the Best Place is the Blue Ribbon Hall, a beautifully restored event space adorned with intricate woodwork and stained glass windows. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that delve into the fascinating stories behind the Pabst family and their famous brewery. Additionally, the Best Place offers beer tastings featuring a selection of Pabst beers, allowing visitors to sample some of the brewery’s most popular brews.

Culver’s:

There is something about finding a local fastfood chain when on a road trip. On July 18, 1984, the very first Culver’s opened its doors in Sauk City, Wisconsin.. It was a family business founded by Craig and Lea Culver, along with Craig’s parents George and Ruth Culver. They built upon their experience running supper clubs and restaurants in the Sauk County area. Sauk City is located in the southern part of Wisconsin, along the banks of the Wisconsin River. The Culver’s headquarters are also located nearby in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin.

The Family

Southern Region

La Valle

La Valle, Wisconsin, is a small village located in Sauk County, nestled amidst the rolling hills and farmland of southwestern Wisconsin. While La Valle itself is a quaint and charming community, one of the nearby attractions that draws visitors to the area is Carr Valley Cheese. And that is exactly what we went for.

Carr Valley Cheese is a renowned Wisconsin cheese producer with multiple locations throughout the state. Their La Valle facility offers cheese enthusiasts the opportunity to experience firsthand the art of cheese making through tours and tastings.

Visitors to Carr Valley Cheese in La Valle can sample a variety of award-winning cheeses crafted by expert cheese makers. From classic cheddars to specialty cheeses infused with herbs, spices, or fruits, there’s a cheese to suit every palate. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide information about each cheese’s flavor profile, ingredients, and production process.

Carr Valley Cheese offers guided tours of their cheese making facilities, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese making process. Tour participants can observe the production area, learn about the art of cheese making from start to finish, and gain insight into the company’s history and commitment to quality.

After the tour and tasting, visitors can browse Carr Valley Cheese’s on-site gift shop, which offers a wide selection of cheeses, gourmet foods, and cheese-related merchandise. Of course we got a few varieties to take with us.

Summary

In exploring Wisconsin, both the DINKs and the Family found unique ways to savor the state’s charms, each tailored to their preferences. The DINKs delved into the vibrant urban scene of Milwaukee, immersing themselves in its cultural offerings, culinary delights, and perhaps even catching a glimpse of its famous breweries. Meanwhile, the Family opted for a quieter escape to La Valle, embracing the tranquility of rural Wisconsin with its scenic landscapes and small-town charm. Both experiences showcased Wisconsin’s diverse appeal, from bustling city life to serene countryside, leaving it up to personal preference to determine who made the most of their Wisconsin adventure.


  1. Regions
  2. The Same
    1. Cheese and Dairy:
  3. The DINKs
    1. Southern Region
      1. Milwaukee
  4. The Family
    1. Southern Region
      1. La Valle
  5. Summary


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Identical Twins with a passion for travel.

The DINKs Double Income, No Kids

The Family Married with Two Kids