Chad and I recently enjoyed a vacation in Wisconsin. We boarded the S.S. Badger in Ludington, MI and traveled across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, WI. The four hour voyage includes activities for the whole family: Games, food, movies, children’s activities, cocktails for the adults, etc. Passengers can sit below deck, walk laps around the ship, or enjoy a lounge chair on the front deck. The cost (including a vehicle) is comparable to fuel prices for travelers driving around the lake. The trip provides a memorable adventure, though Chad thinks this counts as a cruise (I disagree).
Our first stop was Milwaukee, specifically the Harley Davidson Museum. Visitors can experience riding a new Harley (even without a license).
The museum offered insight into the humble beginnings of this company, the strategic planning to survive the Great Depression, their role in WWII, motorcycles in the movies, something for everyone!
We enjoyed a wine tasting and purchased some smoked whitefish at the Milwaukee Public Market.
Later, we had time to visit the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Museum in Oshkosh. Founded by Paul Poberezny in the 1950s, the museum is a tribute to the air craft “gear heads,” passionate home builders and restorers. This site also hosts a spectacular air show each July.
The Curtiss “Jenny,” America’s first mass produced aircraft, this one was found in an old barn.
The EAA Museum also has quite the collection of WWII airplane art.
My favorite location was Port Washington! This quiet port city offers local wine, an amazing smoked fish house, lovely shops, and miles of beautiful lakeside trails.
A fun bike shop for fans of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Near the end of our trip, I had the opportunity to sing at the local Supper Club.
For those in the Midwest, Wisconsin has many lovely destinations, worthy of a long, weekend road trip.
Thanks for reading!
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