Discover the flavors of the Dairy State—and beer, too
More than 250 miles of the Great River Road traverse Wisconsin, traveling through lush farmlands and beautiful Mississippi River scenery. Take some time to explore the delicious flavors of the Dairy State.
Dairy
When we say Wisconsin’s the Dairy State, we’re not kidding. No matter where you travel on the Wisconsin Great River Road (aka state Highway 35), you’ll find tasty treats, from farm-fresh milk to squeaky, delightful cheese curds (or fried ones you’ll find at most any bar or restaurant). A popular stop on the Great River Road is the historic Nelson Cheese Factory, where you can stock up on gouda, cheddar and parmesan or grab a seat outside and enjoy an ice cream cone.
June is also Dairy Month in Wisconsin, and the state goes all out, hosting farm breakfasts and other events throughout Wisconsin. Visit the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin to find great recipes, videos and more.
Other agriculture
It’s not just cows in Wisconsin—farming is the lifeblood of Wisconsin, and you’ll discover tons of other farm-fresh foods at farmers’ markets, festivals and other agritourism attractions in the charming communities along the Great River Road.
Sitting on the banks of the Mississippi River means good fishing too, and in addition to fresh catches at local restaurants, several communities along the river celebrate this bounty—visit Trempealeau for its annual Catfish Days celebration in July or snap a selfie with the larger-than-life Sunny the Sunfish statue in Onalaska, “the sunfish capital of the world.”
Want to learn a little bit about the state’s agricultural history? Pay a visit to Stonefield State Historic Site in Cassville, where you’ll encounter historic farm implements and discover what it took to make Wisconsin the farming capital it is today.
Beer
Let’s not forget perhaps Wisconsin’s most important contribution to the country’s palate—beer. Travelers along the Great River Road will find plenty of ales, lagers and stouts to sample, whether you
And beer lovers shouldn’t miss the Potosi Brewing Company in the southwestern corner of the state. Potosi Brewing was founded in 1852 and was once the fifth-largest brewery in the state before eventually closing in 1972. Thanks to strong community support, the brewery reopened in 2008, and the site is also home to a restaurant as well as the National Brewery Museum and the Potosi Brewing Company Transportation Museum. Stop in for a pint—all proceeds go to charity!