Travel Wisconsin: Start to Summer

Elisabeth Montemurro, 620WTMJ

Make the most of summer in Wisconsin. Fresh produce, thrilling racing, serene trails and outdoor entertainment, whatever summertime experience you’re seeking, you’ll find it in Wisconsin. Here’s to the start of summer.

Find fresh produce, flowers and goodies at a Wisconsin farmers market

Wisconsin farmers produce some of the best ingredients in the country. Get a taste of that farm-fresh flavor at a trip-worthy farmers’ market.

In Madison, discover one of the country’s best at the Dane County Farmers’ Market. This is America’s largest producers-only farmers’ market. All the items are grown, raised and produced by the person behind the stand. It’s an almost religious-like experience browsing hundreds of vendors as you circle the Wisconsin State Capitol with fellow shoppers.

Another standout option to add to your summer travel list is the Downtown Beloit Farmers Market. Nearly 6,000 shoppers visit this market each Saturday.It’s a weekly affair for many Beloit locals because the market is so well stocked. Find local produce, baked goods, honey, jams and jellies, meat, eggs, cheese, artisan crafts, skin care and much more.

The rumble and roar of racing action

The raceways of Wisconsin turn up the action all summer long. Plan a trip next month to experience the Crandon International Raceway. The iconic dirt track hosts the Forest County Potawatomi Brush Run in June for an ultimate kickoff to summer in the Northwoods.Happening the weekend of June 19-21, the event is known for the high intensity of short-course, off-road racing.

Make sure to visit Road America for another icon of the season. The racetrack in Elkhart Lake is nicknamed America’s National Park of Speed. You’ll find racing action throughout the season at this track dating back to 1955. Hundreds of thousands of fans enjoy the family-friendly thrills here each summer.

Get outside on the hiking and biking trails of Wisconsin

Wisconsin is nearly half covered in forests, and the landscape is crisscrossed by trails to explore the natural landscape. Plan your summer hiking or biking trip with the Wisconsin Trail Report.

The interactive map helps you locate trail networks across the state, learn about conditions and find nearby recommendations. More than 185 trail networks are included on the report. Click a destination on the Trail Report for ideas for dining, lodging and activities in the area.

World-class entertainment in iconic outdoor venues

Experience a show outdoors at one of Wisconsin’s seasonal performing arts venues. American Players Theatre is the country’s second largest outdoor theater devoted to the classics. It’s a must-visit destination for any theater lover — American Players Theatre recently won the Tony Award for regional theater!

You’ll feel a communal connection watching one of the professional plays performed at this 1,075-seat outdoor amphitheater. Be sure to arrive early. Picnicking before a show is part of the tradition at American Players Theater. Consider visiting the weekend of July 17-19 for the inaugural Wellness Weekend that will include yoga, guided prairie walks, journaling and more.

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