By Michele Alperin
Wisconsin's defining characteristics are its natural beauty and native American heritage. To take it all in--and poke into the less well-known venues--set aside plenty of time to traverse this relatively large area.
History
Wisconsin moved from French to British hands after the French and Indian War. To make way for settlers arriving in the early 19th century, the federal government ejected Wisconsin's Native Americans. It then slaughtered those who returned or pushed them into reservations.
Geography
Wisconsin has five geographical regions: the Lake Superior Lowland, Northern Highland, Central Plain, Eastern Ridges and Lowlands, and the Western Upland.
The Dells
The water from melting glaciers shaped ancient layers of sand deposited at the bottom of a shallow sea into tall sandstone cliffs. The Wisconsin River winds through a gorge to reveal side canyons and sandbars in this distinctive area north northwest of Madison.
North Woods
With the help of ancient glaciers, Wisconsin's North Woods are dotted with thousands of lakes and snaked with rivers. Canoe, kayak, fish, breathe deeply and listen to the loons.
Cheese
Cheese making followed dairy farming into Wisconsin as a cottage industry in 1841. The state now produces over 600 types of cheese. Wherever you are in the state, tour the local cheese plants. Be sure to call first.
Cities
Visit Wisconsin's two largest cities. Milwaukee, on the shore of Lake Michigan, offers all of the arts and cultural opportunities of any big city. However, the smaller Madison, the state capital, keeps up; it has art museums, opera, symphony and ballet. The latter also satisfies nature lovers with its five lakes, 200-plus parks and arboretum.
Resources
About the Author:
Michele Alperin is a freelance writer with more than 10 years' experience. She specializes in business, arts and Judaism, and her work has appeared in a variety of print and online publications, including MyJewishLearning.com, "U.S.1," "Princeton Packet," "Jewish State" and "Jewish Journal of Greater Los Angeles." She has master's degrees in business and Jewish education.
