Best Wisconsin Museums: Discovering the State’s Rich History and Culture

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Wisconsin is a state that has a rich history and culture, and one of the best ways to explore it is through its museums. From art and history to science and technology, Wisconsin has a diverse array of museums that cater to all interests. We will explore some of the best Wisconsin museums this state has to offer.

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Wisconsin’s museums have a long and storied history. The state is home to some of the oldest and most respected museums in the country, such as the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and the National Railroad Museum. These museums showcase the state’s industrial heritage and are a must-visit for anyone interested in Wisconsin’s history.

Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or a science geek, Wisconsin has a museum that will pique your interest. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best museums in Wisconsin, from the Milwaukee Art Museum to the EAA AirVenture Museum. So, let’s get started and explore the best Wisconsin museums to explore and enjoy.

Key Takeaways

  • Wisconsin has a diverse array of museums that cater to all interests.
  • The state is home to some of the oldest and most respected museums in the country.
  • From art and history to science and technology, Wisconsin has a museum that will pique your interest.

History of Wisconsin Museums

Wisconsin has a rich history that spans back to the early days of America. The state boasts a variety of museums that showcase the unique history of Wisconsin and its people. From the Wisconsin Historical Museum to smaller local museums, there is something for everyone.

The Wisconsin Historical Society was founded in 1846, making it one of the oldest historical societies in the country. The society’s mission is to collect, preserve, and share the stories of Wisconsin’s past. The Wisconsin Historical Museum, located in Madison, is one of the most popular museums in the state and features exhibits that cover the history of Wisconsin from prehistoric times to the present day.

Another popular museum is Old World Wisconsin, located in Eagle. This living history museum showcases the daily life of early settlers in Wisconsin. Visitors can explore over 60 historic buildings, including homes, farms, and businesses, and learn about the customs and traditions of Wisconsin’s early inhabitants.

The Milwaukee Public Museum is another must-visit museum in Wisconsin. Founded in 1882, the museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the country and features exhibits on natural history, anthropology, and European and American history. The museum also boasts a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Other notable museums in Wisconsin include the Chazen Museum of Art in Madison, the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, and the National Railroad Museum in Green Bay. With so many museums to choose from, visitors to Wisconsin can explore the state’s rich history and culture in a variety of ways.

Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee Art Museum

Location: 700 N. Art Museum Dr. Milwaukee

Milwaukee Art Museum is an iconic institution located on a 24-acre lakefront campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It is the largest art museum in the state and one of the most prominent art museums in the Midwest. The museum is home to a vast collection of art spanning from antiquity to the present day.

The museum’s collection includes over 30,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photographs, and prints. The museum’s collection is particularly strong in American and European art, with notable works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is also known for its impressive architecture. The museum’s Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that has become a Milwaukee landmark. The Pavilion features a movable sunscreen called the Burke Brise Soleil, which opens and closes like the wings of a bird.

Visitors to the Milwaukee Art Museum can enjoy a variety of exhibitions and programs throughout the year. The museum offers guided tours, lectures, and workshops for visitors of all ages. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs.

Overall, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone interested in architecture and design. With its impressive collection of art and stunning architecture, the museum is an essential part of the cultural landscape of Wisconsin and the Midwest.

Madison Museum of Contemporary Art

Location: 227 State StreetMadison

The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMOCA) is an independent organization that exhibits, collects, and preserves modern and contemporary art. Located in downtown Madison, the museum features a wide range of works from local, national, and international artists.

One of the unique aspects of the MMOCA is that it provides free exhibitions for locals and visitors alike. The museum has been open since 1901 and has found itself at the forefront of modern art. The museum features highly regarded and esteemed contemporary artists from across the globe.

The museum has a permanent collection of over 5,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The collection is constantly growing, with new acquisitions added regularly. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of emerging and established artists.

The museum is committed to providing transformative experiences that educate, reflect, and inspire individuals and the community. The museum offers a range of educational programming, including lectures, workshops, and tours. Additionally, the museum has a library and archives that are open to the public.

Overall, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art. With its diverse collection, free admission, and commitment to education and community engagement, the museum is a valuable cultural resource for the city of Madison and beyond.

Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin: A Unique Look at a Legendary Company
Such an incredible collection of history, epherma, and whimsy

Harley-Davidson Museum

Location: 400 W Canal St, Milwaukee

The Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-visit destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the museum showcases the iconic American motorcycle brand’s rich history and culture through interactive exhibits and displays.

Visitors can explore the museum’s vast collection of motorcycles, artifacts, and memorabilia, which spans over 100 years of Harley-Davidson’s history. The museum’s exhibits highlight the brand’s impact on American culture and society, from its roots as a small motorbike manufacturer to its status as a global icon.

Some of the museum’s most popular exhibits include the “Serial Number One” display, which features the oldest known Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and the “Tank Wall,” which showcases a collection of gas tanks that have been customized by motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world.

In addition to its impressive collection of motorcycles and memorabilia, the Harley-Davidson Museum also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including live music, festivals, and guided tours.

Overall, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in motorcycles, American culture, or history. With its extensive collection of exhibits and interactive displays, visitors are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the iconic Harley-Davidson brand.

WI Maritime Museum

Wisconsin Maritime Museum

Location: 75 Maritime Drive Manitowoc

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum is located in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, on the shores of Lake Michigan. Founded in 1968, this museum exhibits the maritime background of Wisconsin in the Great Lakes area.

The museum offers visitors a unique place to spend hours learning about the sailors, shipbuilders, and submariners who made that history, and to have some great family fun. The museum’s exhibits include various vessels, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the maritime history of the Great Lakes region.

One of the museum’s main attractions is the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine that is open for visitors to explore. Visitors can also book an overnight stay on the submarine and experience what life was like for submariners during the war.

The museum also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Smoke on the Water Fundraiser, which takes place on August 10, 2023. Visitors can enjoy live music, food, and drinks while supporting the museum’s mission to preserve and promote Wisconsin’s maritime heritage.

Overall, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history and the Great Lakes region. With its impressive collection of vessels, artifacts, and interactive displays, visitors are sure to have a fun and educational experience.

Best Wisconsin Museums Railroad Museum
Photo Credit: Discover Green Bay

The National Railroad Museum

Location: 2285 S. Broadway Green Bay

The National Railroad Museum is one of the largest and most well-respected rail museums in the United States. Located in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the museum has over 70 pieces of rolling stock and 100,000+ artifacts. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in trains, railroads, and transportation history.

The museum has a vast collection of locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and other rolling stock. Visitors can explore the interiors of many of these vehicles and learn about the history of rail transportation in the United States. The museum also has operating/display tracks, where visitors can see some of the trains in action.

In addition to its impressive collection of rolling stock, the museum has many indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visitors can learn about the history of rail transportation, the role of trains in the development of the United States, and the technology behind trains and railroads. The museum also has seasonal train rides, special events, and rental facilities for private events.

Overall, the National Railroad Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in transportation history. With its vast collection of rolling stock and artifacts, as well as its indoor and outdoor exhibits, the museum offers an unparalleled experience for visitors of all ages.

The EAA AirVenture Museum

The EAA AirVenture Museum

Location: 3000 Poberezny Road, Oshkosh

The EAA AirVenture Museum, located in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. This museum is home to more than 200 historic planes and exhibits, making it one of the largest aviation museums in the world.

Visitors to the EAA AirVenture Museum can explore a range of exhibits, including vintage aircraft, military planes, and experimental aircraft. The museum also features interactive exhibits and displays that allow visitors to learn about the history of aviation and the science behind flight.

One of the highlights of the EAA AirVenture Museum is the Eagle Hangar, which houses a collection of rare and unique aircraft, including the only surviving Ford Trimotor and a replica of the Wright Flyer. The museum also features a tribute to World War II aviation, with exhibits dedicated to the planes and pilots of the era.

In addition to its impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits, the EAA AirVenture Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh airshow, which attracts thousands of aviation enthusiasts from around the world.

Overall, the EAA AirVenture Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation history and technology. With its extensive collection of planes and exhibits, as well as its interactive displays and events, this museum offers a unique and informative experience for visitors of all ages.

Circus World Museum

Circus World Museum

Location: 550 Water Street. Baraboo

The Circus World Museum is a museum complex in Baraboo, Wisconsin, that is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the circus in America. The museum is owned by the Wisconsin Historical Society and operated by the non-profit Circus World Museum Foundation.

The museum features an extensive collection of circus artifacts and exhibits, including circus wagons, posters, costumes, and props. Visitors can also enjoy daily live circus performances throughout the summer, which showcase the talents of acrobats, clowns, and other performers.

Baraboo was home to The Ringling Bros. Circus from 1884 thru 1918, and during those thirty-four years, the operation grew to become the largest circus enterprise the world has ever known. As a result, the Circus World Museum has a special connection to the Ringling family and their legacy in the circus industry.

Visitors can learn about the history of the Ringling Bros. Circus and other famous circuses, such as Barnum & Bailey and the Great American Circus, through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum also offers educational programs and workshops for children and adults, making it a great destination for families and school groups.

Overall, the Circus World Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the rich history of the circus in America. With its impressive collection of artifacts, live performances, and educational programs, it offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Pabst Mansion

Pabst Mansion

Location: 2000 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee

The Pabst Mansion is a stunning museum located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Built in 1892 by Captain Frederick Pabst, founder of the Pabst Brewing Company, the mansion is a grand Flemish Renaissance Revival-styled house. It features 37 rooms, 12 baths, and 14 fireplaces, and is a beautiful example of the architecture of the time.

Visitors to the Pabst Mansion can take a docent-led tour to see the first through third floors of the mansion and learn about the Pabst family and their history. The tours are offered Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and on Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. Limited parking is available at the mansion and across the street at 2023 West Wisconsin Avenue.

The Pabst Mansion is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in architecture. It is a well-preserved example of the grand homes of the late 19th century and offers a glimpse into the life of one of Milwaukee’s most prominent families. If you’re in the area, be sure to add it to your list of things to do.

Chazen Museum of Art

Location: 750 University Avenue Madison

The Chazen Museum of Art, located at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The museum has an impressive collection of more than 23,000 works of art, ranging from prehistoric times to modern day.

The museum’s collection includes prints, photographs, paintings, and sculptures. Some of the notable collections at the Chazen Museum of Art include the Janice and Jean-Pierre Golay Collection, which features works of art from Lausanne, Switzerland, and the Elvehjem Collection, which includes works of art from Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

The Chazen Museum of Art is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, which is a testament to the quality of the museum’s collection and exhibitions. The museum also offers a variety of programs and events, including lectures, tours, and workshops, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the art on display.

Visitors to the Chazen Museum of Art can also enjoy the museum’s café, which serves coffee, tea, and light snacks. The café has indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great place to relax and take in the museum’s beautiful surroundings.

Overall, the Chazen Museum of Art is a world-class museum that offers visitors a unique and enriching experience. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just looking for a fun and educational outing, the Chazen Museum of Art is definitely worth a visit.

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Final Thought on the Best Wisconsin Museums

Wisconsin is home to a variety of museums that offer visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich history, culture, and art. Whether you’re interested in learning about Native American heritage, exploring the state’s agricultural roots, or admiring contemporary art, there’s a museum in Wisconsin that will suit your interests.

No matter which museum you choose to visit, you’re sure to come away with a greater appreciation for Wisconsin’s rich history and culture. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to add one of these top museums to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Wisconsin Museums

What are some of the top museums to visit in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is home to many top museums that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and the Wisconsin Historical Museum.

What are some must-see exhibits at Wisconsin museums?

There are many must-see exhibits at Wisconsin museums. Some of the most popular ones include the dinosaur exhibit at the Milwaukee Public Museum, the Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit at the Milwaukee Art Museum, and the interactive science exhibits at the Discovery World museum.

Are there any unique museums in Wisconsin worth visiting?

Yes, Wisconsin has many unique museums that are worth visiting. Some of the most interesting ones include the National Mustard Museum, the House on the Rock, and the Circus World Museum.

What are some family-friendly museums in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has many family-friendly museums that are great for kids. Some of the most popular ones include the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, the Children’s Museum of La Crosse, and the EAA Aviation Museum.

Which Wisconsin museums offer guided tours?

Many Wisconsin museums offer guided tours. Some of the most popular ones include the Milwaukee Public Museum, the Wisconsin Historical Museum, and the Paine Art Center and Gardens.

What are some popular art museums in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has many popular art museums. Some of the most well-known ones include the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Chazen Museum of Art, and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.

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