Cheap flights to Wisconsin from £290

Known throughout the US as “the cheese state” Wisconsin produces some of the best cheese in the country thanks to the early German and Scandinavian settlers who helped establish its farming and dairy industries. Apart from grazing cattle, their fertile ground is also used for growing hops which is why the two largest beer companies, Miller and Schlitz have called Wisconsin home. Beyond the rich pastures and famous breweries, Wisconsin’s rivers, forests and glacial lakes offer lots of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, biking and camping.

While driving through the small towns of Wisconsin most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the architecture: buildings and private homes designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, a fellow Wisconsinite. In the larger city of Milwaukee, Santiago Calatrava’s Quadracci Pavilion at the Milwaukee Art Museum features a unique moving sculpture that’s so cutting-edge it should belong on the set of a Star Wars movie.

Wisconsin climate

Wisconsin’s climate is one of extremes: cold winters and warm summers. In January the temperature in Milwaukee can range from minus five to ten degrees Celsius and in July it goes up to the mid-20s. Winters are much colder in the north of the state, but mild in summer. Wisconsin’s annual snowfall averages 47 inches.

Getting around Wisconsin

There’s a reliable bus service in southern and central Wisconsin. Exploring Milwaukee is best on foot, along the walking trails of the river. To best way to get downtown and to the suburbs is by the Milwaukee County Transit System. The Trolley loops around downtown and runs on a seasonal basis. The city is also easily navigated by car.

Driving is the best way to explore the state. All major car hire companies are represented in the airport and in major cities and towns.

Biking enthusiasts should head to Door Country.

What is good to know if travelling to Wisconsin?

• Comprising five state parks and 40 islands, Door County is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the country. The cherry orchards are its pride and while there be sure to pick up some delicious cherry pies and jams sold along the side of the road.
• One of the highlights of visiting Milwaukee is a trip to Miller Valley – home of Miller Brewing Company, the nation’s second largest brewer.
• Sample some authentic Swiss cuisine in New Glarus, which was settled by hundreds of immigrants in the late 19^th century. While there, visit the New Glarus Brewing Company offering microbrews like the popular Spotted Cow.
• Foodies can’t miss a trip to the Gibbsville cheese factory where 50 types of cheese are made. And don’t forget to pick up some salami, mustard and maple syrup while in Milwaukee.
• Visit Lake Superior’s 21 Apostle Islands, in particular Madeline Island which has some fine beaches and an unspoilt landscape.
• Pick an idyllic spot for a picnic near one of 14 waterfalls in Marinette County.