Green County Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to the picturesque Green County in Wisconsin, USA with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Green County

Nestled in the rolling hills of Southwest Wisconsin lies Green County, a charming region known for its picturesque countryside, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Green County has something to offer. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to this hidden gem in the Midwest.

List of Places to Visit in Green County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Green County is a historical treasure trove, boasting many museums and landmarks that showcase the region’s rich heritage. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Historic Cheesemaking Center: Learn about the history of cheese production in the region and indulge in some delicious cheese samples.
  • Swiss Historical Village: Explore a recreated Swiss village and experience the lives of early settlers in Green County.
  • Monroe Arts Center: Admire the local art scene through exhibitions, concerts, and theatre performances at this cultural hub.

Natural Attractions of Green County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Green County is home to an abundance of natural beauty, including rolling hills, lush valleys, and stunning vistas. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love these natural attractions:

  • New Glarus Woods State Park: Hike or bike on the park’s scenic trails, and enjoy a picnic with picturesque views.
  • Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area: Fish or swim in the pristine waters of the lake or hike the nearby trails to admire scenic views.
  • Sugar River Trail: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along this scenic trail that winds through quaint towns and scenic countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Green County

Green County offers many scenic hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Badger State Trail: This 40-mile-long trail passes through rolling hills, farmlands, and beautiful woods.
  • Military Ridge State Trail: This trail follows the route of an old railroad and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.
  • Sugar River State Trail: This trail is perfect for families and leisurely bike rides, with picturesque views of the Sugar River and lush forests.

Best Things to Do in Green County: Activities and Tours

Green County offers a wide range of exciting activities and tours, perfect for families and solo travellers alike. Some of the best things to do in Green County are:

  • Cheese Tours: Explore some of the world’s best cheese factories and indulge in delicious cheese samples on this tour.
  • Farm Tours: Visit some of the region’s best farms and learn about sustainable agriculture and organic practices.
  • Brewery Tours: Sample some of the region’s best craft beer and learn about the art of brewing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Green County

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Green County, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Green County, explore local museums and landmarks
2 Hike or bike on local trails, visit New Glarus Woods State Park
3 Enjoy a farm tour, visit local cheese factories
4 Take a brewery tour and enjoy local craft beer
5 Visit quaint towns and explore local shops and restaurants
6 Experience local culture through music and theatre performances
7 Depart Green County

Food and Drink Scene of Green County

Must-Try Dishes

Green County is known for its delicious cheese, but there are many other local dishes worth trying, including:

  • Brodhead Pudding: This rich, sweet pudding is made with layers of vanilla wafers, pecans, and whipped cream.
  • Bohemian Rye Bread: This hearty bread is made with dark rye flour and is perfect for sandwiches or toast.
  • Kringle: This flaky pastry is filled with fruit or nuts and is a popular breakfast or dessert item.

Local Beverages

Green County is home to some of the Midwest’s best craft breweries and wineries, offering a wide range of craft beer and delicious wine. Some of the must-try local beverages are:

  • Spotted Cow: This farmhouse ale is brewed by New Glarus Brewing Company and is a local favourite.
  • Fawn Creek Winery: This local winery produces a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and fruit wines.
  • Cream Ale: This light, refreshing ale is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Green County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Green County offers many affordable and comfortable accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the top recommendations are:

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Monroe: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located in the heart of Monroe, within walking distance of local attractions.
  • New Glarus Hotel: This charming hotel is located in the historic Swiss village of New Glarus and offers comfortable rooms and authentic local charm.
  • Bumbleberry Inn: This cosy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway.

What to Buy in Green County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Green County offers many locally made products and souvenirs that make perfect gifts or memories of your trip. Some of the best products to bring home are:

  • Cheese: Green County is known for its delicious cheese, and there are many local cheese factories offering a wide range of flavours and types.
  • Beer or Wine: Bring home a bottle of your favourite local brew or wine from one of the region’s many breweries and wineries.
  • Handmade Crafts: Many local artisans and crafters sell their handmade crafts at markets and shops throughout the region, including pottery, jewellery, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Green County

Green County has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by immigration, agriculture, and industry. The region is known for its Swiss and German heritage, which is evident in the architecture, food, and festivals. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture by attending cultural events, exploring local museums and landmarks, and trying the local cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Green County

Green County is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on personal preferences and interests.

  • Spring: Spring is a great time to visit Green County to see the vibrant wildflowers, enjoy the mild temperatures, and attend local festivals and events.
  • Summer: Summer is the busiest season in Green County, with many outdoor activities and events, from fishing, hiking, and biking to farmers’ markets and beer festivals.
  • Fall: Fall is the perfect time to visit Green County to admire the breathtaking fall foliage, enjoy the cool temperatures, and attend harvest festivals and cheese-making events.
  • Winter: Winter is a quiet and peaceful time in Green County, perfect for winter sports, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing, or relaxing by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa.

Do’s and Don’ts of Green County

Do:

  • Try the Cheese: Green County is known for its delicious cheese, and trying the local varieties is a must.
  • Explore Local Museums and Landmarks: Green County has a rich history, and exploring local museums and landmarks is a great way to learn about the region.
  • Attend Local Festivals and Events: Green County hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including cheese-making events, beer festivals, and harvest celebrations, and attending these events is a great way to experience the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Green County is a beautiful and pristine region, and visitors should make sure not to litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Disrespect Local Customs and Traditions: Green County has a rich heritage and culture, and visitors should respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Drink and Drive: Green County has strict laws against drinking and driving, and visitors should make sure not to drink and drive to ensure everyone’s safety.

Safety and Health

Safety in Green County

Green County is a safe and friendly region, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. Visitors should still take the usual precautions, such as locking cars and not leaving valuables unattended. Additionally, visitors should be aware of their surroundings when hiking or biking on local trails and should take precautions to prevent tick bites during the summer months.

Health in Green County

Green County has a high standard of healthcare, with many medical facilities and hospitals throughout the region. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage and take precautions to prevent Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses during the summer months.

Getting to Green County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Green County is easily accessible by car or bus, with many major highways running through the region. Additionally, there are several airports near Green County, making flying a viable option for visitors. Some of the transportation options include:

Airports Near Green County

  • Dane County Regional Airport (MSN): Located in Madison, about 50 miles from Green County.
  • Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Located in Chicago, about 120 miles from Green County.
  • Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE): Located in Milwaukee, about 120 miles from Green County.

Bus Stations Near Green County

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Janesville, about 25 miles from Green County.

Other Options

Green County is a relatively small region, and visitors can easily get around by car or bike. Additionally, some hotels offer shuttles to nearby attractions and events.

How to Get Around in Green County

The best way to get around in Green County is by car or bike. Additionally, some hotels offer shuttle service to nearby attractions and events. Visitors should ensure they have a valid driver’s license and adequate vehicle insurance if driving in Green County.

Where to Go Next from Green County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Green County is located in the heart of Southwest Wisconsin, making it an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the top nearby destinations are:

  • Madison: Explore the state capital and visit local museums, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • Wisconsin Dells: Enjoy a fun-filled day at one of the many waterparks or amusement parks in this popular Midwest vacation spot.
  • Milwaukee: Discover the city’s rich history and culture, including breweries, art museums, and music venues.

Conclusion

Green County is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering something for everyone, from beautiful natural landscapes to rich cultural history and delicious local cuisine. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip, with tips on where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. So pack your bags and come explore all that Green County has to offer.