4-Day Itinerary for Heartland, Wisconsin

This Wisconsin Itinerary at a Glance

This four-day itinerary covers top attractions in Wisconsin Dells, Plover and the surrounding areas. It mixes nature, history and local food experiences, giving you a comprehensive overview of the heart of Wisconsin.

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Enjoy These Wisconsin Heartland Attractions and More:

Circus World Museum
Al Ringling Theatre
International Crane Foundation
Wisconsin Dells
Baraboo Big Top Parade
and plenty more

Day-to-Day Heartland, WI Itinerary

Day 1: Attractions in Baraboo, Wisconsin

Start your visit in Baraboo and explore the rich history of the American circus through Circus World Museum’s immersive Ringling Bros. Circus exhibits. Watch live circus performances, see a collection of vintage circus wagons and learn about the golden age of the circus. Don’t miss the Big Top exhibit for an authentic circus experience. Continue learning more about Al. Ringling with a visit to the mansion and theater of the same name.

Circus World Museum began with less than an acre of land and six historic circus wagons has now become an internationally recognized and respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings along Water Street, plus the Ringling Bros. Circus Train shed complex, and over 260 spectacular wagons.

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Day 2: Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells for Groups

Visit the International Crane Foundation, dedicated to the conservation of cranes. Walk through the beautifully landscaped grounds, see crane species from around the world, and learn about their habitats and behaviors and the foundation’s conservation efforts. This educational experience is a must for animal lovers and anyone interested in conservation.

Experience the natural beauty of the Wisconsin Dells from the water. Dells Boat Tours takes you through the unique sandstone rock formations, offering views you can’t get anywhere else. Options include the classic Upper Dells Boat Tour and Lower Dells Boat Tour, each providing spectacular scenery and knowledgeable guides. Or enjoy a land-and-water adventure on The Original Wisconsin Dells Ducks, amphibious vehicles that have been a Dells staple since 1946.

Wisconsin Dells is also The Waterpark Capital of the World for good reason having America’s largest outdoor water park (Noah’s Ark), the country’s largest indoor/outdoor combination waterpark (The Wilderness Resort) and the state’s largest indoor waterpark (Kalahari Resorts and Conventions). Coast along the lazy river, race a friend down the mats waterslide or speed down a favorite in a tube slide together. No matter what ride you try, you are sure to slide, splash and have a blast at these thrilling water resorts.

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Day 3: Wisconsin Dells and Plover

Head north and explore a new interactive center that focuses on Wisconsin food, farming and sustainability. The Food + Farm Exploration Center in Plover offers exhibits on food systems, sustainability and farm-to-table practices. It’s an informative stop that offers hands-on learning experiences and a fun way to engage with local produce.

Return to the Wisconsin Dells with a visit to the H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum. Learn about the history of the area’s photography through the works of H.H. Bennett, a 19th-century photographer who helped popularize Wisconsin Dells. The museum features his iconic images of the Dells, along with historical exhibits on the area.

Day 4: Big Cat Rescue Center in Rock Springs

Before departing for home, visit the Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue& Education Center, which provides a safe and comfortable home for abused, neglected and unwanted big cats, including lions, tigers and leopards.