These are 7 of the most treasured views in Wisconsin. Here’s how to find them

Wisconsin is home to countless scenic destinations.

By the numbers, there are 50 state parks, 15 state forests and more than 15,000 lakes, according to the state Department of Natural Resources. Not only that, but Wisconsin has islands, lighthouses, unique architecture and more.

Though it may seem impossible to narrow down, we’ve put together a list of Wisconsin’s top seven must-see spots.

This is part of a new USA TODAY network project showcasing breathtaking — and perhaps, underappreciated — views throughout the United States. These are some of the most beautiful landmarks, scenic vistas and hidden gems you can truly treasure in your area.

[ Most Treasured Views in America: National | West | South | Middle America | Northeast ]

Whether you’re a resident or simply planning your next adventure, these are some of the most treasured views Wisconsin has to offer.

Apostle Islands

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore boast a 12-mile Lake Superior shoreline and nearly two dozen islands. It’s also home to the largest collection of lighthouses in the national parks system.

In short, it’s every outdoor-lovers dream. The Islands are also have deep connections to Ojibwe culture.

Things to do at the Apostle Islands:

• Kayaking: Take your own kayak or book a guided tour with an authorized kayak outfitter to explore the islands and mainland caves.
• Hiking: Hikers have plenty of options; you can walk the mainland trail or trails on 12 islands.
• Camping: You can camp on 18 of the 21 islands, as well as the mainland.

Do you have to pay to see the Apostle Islands?

There aren’t any entrance fees, but you may have to pay for parking and certain activities.

What is the closest city to the Apostle Islands?

The closest city to the Islands is Bayfield.

Details on the Apostle Islands:

The national lakeshore is on the northern portion of the Bayfield Peninsula.

The site was the recipient of an “Accessibility Excellence” award in 2017. There are various accessible activities, including campsites and viewpoints.

Overall, the Apostle Islands are pet-friendly. Just make sure you keep your furry friend on a leash in most places, though there are some other rules to be aware of, too.

For more information on the Apostle Islands, you can call 1-888-722-6657 or visit the NPS website.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Crowned Wisconsin’s most visited state park in 2024 and 2023, Devil’s Lake State Park is basically synonymous with Wisconsin.

It’s not a shock that the park sees around 2.5 million visitors annually. It’s one of the prettiest places in the state.

Whether you want to hike the bluffs — which are part of one of the most ancient rock outcrops in North America — or just take in the views, Devil’s Lake has something for everyone.

Things to do at Devil’s Lake State Park:

• Hiking: There are 29 miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts to enjoy, including 1.5 miles of accessible trails.
• Picnic areas: Not a hiking fan but still want to take in the views? Both sides of the lake have reservable picnic spots and shelters.
• Camping: Devil’s Lake has more than 400 campsites across the park.

Do you have to pay to see Devil’s Lake State Park?

Yes. You need a vehicle admissions pass to visit Devil’s Lake, which is required for all Wisconsin state parks. Prices vary, but a 12-month pass for a vehicle with Wisconsin license plates is $28 and a daily pass is $13.

What is the closest city to Devil’s Lake State Park?

The closest city is Baraboo.

Details on Devil’s Lake State Park:

Devil’s Lake is at S5975 Park Road, Baraboo.

You can rent a campsite, stay at a local hotel or rental property, or even check out the nearby Wisconsin Dells.

The park has several accessibility options, including picnic sites and binocular viewers. There are also accessible walking paths and a beach access mat.

While the park is pet-friendly, make sure your furry friend stays on a leash at all times. You can check out the DNR’s website for more rules on bringing your pet.

For more information on Devil’s Lake State Park, you can call 1-608-356-8301 or visit the DNR website.

Hoan Bridge in Milwaukee

The Hoan Bridge is a Milwaukee icon.

Originally built in 1977 in honor of former Milwaukee Mayor Daniel Hoan, the bridge supports countless Milwaukeeans commuting to and from downtown each day.

It’s known for its bright yellow tied-arch design and light displays that illuminate the west side of the bridge each night.

The Hoan is about to get even brighter, too. Nonprofit Light the Hoan announced in April that the installation of lights on the harbor-facing side of the bridge would begin that month, with construction wrapping up in June.

Things to do at the Hoan Bridge:

• See the lights: Probably self-explanatory. The Hoan is lit up every night, but you should keep an eye out for special displays on certain holidays and events throughout the year.
• Hoancoming Festival: The organizers behind the Hoan’s lights host an annual fundraiser each year featuring a boat parade, DJs, a kayak crawl and more. This year’s iteration has not been announced yet, but it was last held in August 2024.

Do you have to pay to see the Hoan Bridge?

No. There is no toll on the bridge.

Details on The Hoan Bridge:

The Hoan doesn’t have its own website or phone number, but you can find out more information about the bridge on Light the Hoan’s website.

Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park

Wyalusing State Park wows visitors with its spectacular views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers from 500-foot bluff-top lookouts.

Whether you want to camp, hike or do one of the many water activities available, this spot has it all. Plus, it’s one of the oldest state parks in Wisconsin.

Things to do at Wyalusing State Park:

• Boating: Boating enthusiasts can rent from local businesses — or bring their own — and use the park’s ramp to get their adventure started.
• Fishing: The Mississippi River is home to plenty of fish, including bass and walleye. There is an accessible fishing pier at its boat landing.
• Canoeing: Explore six miles of the Mississippi River’s backwaters along a canoe trail.

Do you have to pay to see the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park?

Yes. You need a vehicle admissions pass to visit Wyalusing State Park, which is required for all Wisconsin state parks and forests. Prices vary, but a 12-month pass for a vehicle with Wisconsin license plates is $28 and a daily pass is $13.

What is the closest city to the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park?

The closest city is Bagley.

Details on the Mississippi River at Wyalusing State Park:

Nestled near the Wisconsin-Iowa border, Wyalusing State Park is located at 13081 State Park Lane, Bagley.

You can reserve a campsite or book a stay at nearby hotels or rental properties.

The park has a an accessible campsite and fishing pier.

While the park is pet-friendly, make sure your furry friend stays on a leash at all times. You can check out the DNR’s website for more rules on bringing your pet.

For more information on Wyalusing State Park, you can call 1-608-996-2261 or visit the DNR website.

Lake Geneva

Wisconsin has no shortage of lakes. One of the prettiest, however, is Geneva Lake.

Nestled in the southeastern portion of the state, the 5,401-acre lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including a state park — and even has a museum on its shoreline that’s only accessible by boat.

On top of its stunning views, there are a variety of activities in and out of the water. You can spend a day hiking the 23-mile path around the lake. Or take a day trip to Big Foot Beach State Park.

Things to do at Geneva Lake:

• Do a beach day: What better way to take in the stunning views Geneva Lake has to offer than on one of its six beaches?
• Visit Black Point Estate and Gardens: Tour Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp’s summer home. The Wisconsin historic site, which is also one of the oldest homes in Lake Geneva, is only accessible by boat.
• Fishing: Geneva Lake has a variety of fish for enthusiasts of any skill level to catch, including trout, walleye and smallmouth bass.

Do you have to pay to see Geneva Lake?

No, the lake is free to view. You may need to pay for parking or certain activities, though, including access to Riviera Beach ($10 for people age 7 and older) in downtown Lake Geneva. The state park also requires a vehicle admission pass.

Details on Geneva Lake:

Check out lodging options in surrounding Lake Geneva, Williams Bay and Fontana-On-Geneva Lake.

For more information on Geneva Lake, you can call the DNR at 1-888-936-7463 or visit its website.

Cana Island Lighthouse

Cana Island Lighthouse is a Door County gem.

The lighthouse — with an 89-foot tower made of cream city bricks — has stood for more than 150 years. It’s still in a good enough condition that visitors can climb its staircase to look at the lake.

Aside from the scenery, getting to Cana Island is an adventure in itself. You can walk across a rocky causeway or take a complimentary wagon ride. But Lake Michigan water levels can occasionally block the causeway.

Things to do at the Cana Island Lighthouse:

• Climb the tower: Just 97 steps separate you from the “sweeping panoramic” view of Lake Michigan and the Door County peninsula.
• Explore the grounds: The lighthouse isn’t the only special view Cana Island has to offer. Take one of the footpaths around the island to admire the Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Dive: Feeling adventurous? Diving enthusiasts can check out the wreck of the Frank O’Connor, which sunk in 1919, just off the island.

Do you have to pay to see the Cana Island Lighthouse?

Yes, there is a fee to get on Cana Island. Tickets ($12 for adults, $10 for veterans, seniors and children ages 5 to 17) include admission to the lighthouse.

What is the closest city to the Cana Island Lighthouse?

The closest city is Baileys Harbor.

Details on Cana Island Lighthouse:

The lighthouse can be found at 800 E. Cana Island Road. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from May to October.

Leashed pets are allowed on the island, according to a 2023 Facebook post.

For more information on the Cana Island Lighthouse, you can call Door County officials at (920) 743-5511 or visit the county website.

Lambeau Field

Green Bay’s Lambeau Field is arguably the heart of Wisconsin sports. Home to the Green Bay Packers — and the 2025 NFL Draft — the stadium is the second largest in the NFL.

Named after Packers founder Earl “Curly” Lambeau, Lambeau Field can hold more than 81,000 fans. It also is home to a 376,000-square foot atrium, which houses restaurants, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and more.

Things to do at Lambeau Field:

• Catch a Packers game: Need we say more?
• Stadium tour: There are several options that allow fans to explore the iconic stadium, including premium seating and field access.
• Packers Hall of Fame: If you’re not feeling a whole stadium tour, you can check out the Packers’ 15,000-square-foot Hall of Fame.

Do you have to pay to see Lambeau Field?

Yes, if you want to get inside the stadium. You can visit the stadium’s website for admission and parking information.

Details on Lambeau Field:

The Packers’ home is at 1265 Lombardi Ave., Green Bay.

Lambeau is not pet-friendly, but service animals are always welcome. There are also a number of accessibility accommodations throughout the stadium.

For more information on Lambeau Field, call (920) 569-7500 or visit its website.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: These are 7 of the most treasured views in Wisconsin. Here’s how to find them

Reporting by Cailey Gleeson, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

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