Kona is the best part of my life. We go on many adventures together and LOTS of walks! Most days, we roam around our neighborhood, but we love to jump in the car and visit other spots in the area for a change of pace. Here are a few of my favorite dog walking spots in Milwaukee. This list is a two-parter, you can find the first part here. 7 Bridges Trail in Grant Park Back to the south side of Milwaukee, Seven Bridges Trail was new for Kona and I in 2023, but we loved it. The trail is located right along the shore of Lake Michigan and we love a beach (even in the snow). There are numerous foot bridges (seven), stone paths, and creeks along the route. I cannot wait to take her here in the summer and fully enjoy the lakefront. Estabrook Park Located in Shorewood, Estabrook is one of my all-time favorite spots to take my pup. Not only is the trail located along the water, but there is a beer garden! There is also a dog park, but Kona doesn't get along well with other dogs, so we typically don't hang out there. Estabrook contains another section of the Oak Leaf trail with paths of pavement, gravel, and mud. There are always people fishing in the river and the greenery surrounding is beautiful. Lakeshore State Park In my opinion, this is a park that does not get enough love in Milwaukee. Lakeshore State Park is located right in downtown Milwaukee, practically in the middle of the city. Once you are inside of the park, it feels like an urban oasis. The park connects to both Hank Aaron State Trail and Oak Leaf Trail and it is almost entirely surrounded by water. There is a small beach with plenty of benches to relax and take in the sights of the city landscape. The trail is paved and it runs through the well-maintained prairie restoration area. Menomonee River Parkway So this technically is not a park, but it is a trail that we frequent often. There are several sections to the Menomonee River Parkway, but the section in Menomonee Falls is one of our favorites. The parkway follows along the Menomonee River for about 2 miles and includes a footbridge, a waterfall, and several natural areas. The parkway is quite busy so I like to take Kona here earlier in the morning to beat the crowds. There's also room for fishing and a paddle launch if you're looking for a little adventure.

I've visited Appleton a few times over the years, but this trip gave me the chance to spend more time exploring everything downtown has to offer. With local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and plenty of entertainment packed into a walkable area, it's an easy destination for a Wisconsin weekend getaway. If you're planning a visit, here are some of my favorite things to do in Downtown Appleton. Activities We arrived in Appleton early Saturday morning so we could catch the Downtown Appleton Farm Market, and it was well worth setting the alarm for. A stretch of College Avenue is closed to traffic and transformed into a bustling market filled with local farmers, food vendors, artists, makers, and small businesses. We walked the entire market three times and still managed to discover something new each pass. Some of our favorite farmers market finds included a wine tasting with Hammen Family Orchard and Winery and a stop at the beer garden hosted by McFleshman's Brewery. We also tried the famous egg rolls that everyone seemed to be talking about—the line was long, but they were absolutely worth the wait. We couldn't resist picking up a few treats from a vendor selling adorable dog cookies, and there were plenty of other vendors offering fresh flowers, fruits and vegetables, cheese, baked goods, and handmade items. I can't stress enough how big the Downtown Appleton Farm Market is. You could easily spend an entire morning there, and honestly, it's worth the drive on its own. After the market, we headed over to the History Museum at the Castle, which is conveniently located right off College Avenue. Did you know Appleton is the hometown of Houdini? The museum features an entire exhibit dedicated to his life and career, complete with interactive displays where you can try a few of his famous tricks yourself. Another floor focuses on the history of Appleton and Wisconsin as a whole. We learned about products that originated in the area, notable people from the region, and how the community continues to evolve. I'm not usually a museum person, but I genuinely enjoyed this stop and learned a lot. One of our favorite unexpected finds was Player 2 Arcade Bar. We grabbed a handful of tokens and spent some time playing pinball, Guitar Hero, Super Mario, and other classic games. It was such a fun way to spend part of the afternoon. Food & Drink Of course, we couldn't survive on egg rolls alone, so we made a few additional food and drink stops throughout downtown. First up was Commodore Club, which was exactly the vibe we were looking for. One side operates as a cozy café while the other is a stylish cocktail lounge. The atmosphere was inviting, and the craft cocktails were excellent. Next, we stopped at Bazil's Pub after multiple people told us to try their cheese curds. We ordered a basket to share along with a BLT wrap and grabbed a table on the patio. The cheese curds were tossed in their signature garlic bazil sauce, which was unlike anything I've had before and definitely worth trying. By mid-afternoon, we needed a little pick-me-up, so we stopped into Bona Fide Juicery. Kailagh ordered a strawberry matcha, and we both loved the bright, welcoming space. Whether you're looking for coffee, smoothies, juices, matcha, or a lighter meal, this is a great downtown stop. Before calling it a day, we treated ourselves to dessert at Legendairy Cookies N Creamery. Their build-your-own ice cream sandwiches were such a fun concept. We picked our cookies, chose our ice cream flavor, added toppings, and ended up with one of our favorite treats of the trip. I honestly need them to open a Milwaukee-area location. Shopping Downtown Appleton is an ideal destination for a girls' day or weekend getaway, especially if you love shopping. Since everything is so walkable, we spent a few hours wandering up and down College Avenue and popping into nearly every store that caught our eye. One of my favorite finds was Eco Candle Co. The shop is filled with candles, incense, bath products, and gift items, and I could have spent hours smelling everything. I ended up picking up a few gifts for an upcoming birthday and had a hard time narrowing down my choices. We also loved Blue Moon Emporium, which carries a wide variety of locally made products, home décor, clothing, artwork, and gifts. Kailagh and I both left with a few purchases because there were so many unique items you don't typically see elsewhere. Finally, we visited several clothing boutiques, including Beatnik Betty's Resale Boutique, Olive and Rose, and Sugar Rushlow Boutique. Each shop had its own style and personality, and we were impressed by both the selection and the prices. Whether you're looking for a statement piece, everyday basics, or something vintage-inspired, downtown Appleton has plenty of options. After spending a full day exploring, it's easy to see why so many people love Downtown Appleton. Between the incredible farm market, locally owned shops, great restaurants, unique attractions, and walkable downtown, there's something for just about everyone. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Appleton is a destination that's well worth the visit. We barely scratched the surface during our time there, and I already have a list of places I want to check out on our next trip back.

I’ve been on a mission to find the best deep fried cheese curds in Wisconsin for over four years. I have eaten curds at over 200 different places. I’m not sure if I have found the best in the state yet but I have found some very good contenders. However, I can confidently say that I have tried all of best deep fried curds in the City of Milwaukee. This is the ultimate list. Dairyland I love Dairyland. I discovered them when they were a food truck at Zocalo Park and became obsessed. Their burgers are top tier. Their chicken sandwiches are drool-worthy. But their cheese curds? Some of the best in Milwaukee. I know you are probably thinking “well they didn’t win best curds in Milwaukee” – and you’re right. But I whole-heartedly believe that they did not win because not enough people have tried their curds. The curds are battered and made with Clock Shadow Creamery cheese. This is your sign to go to Redbar and order them with a side of their homemade ranch. If you try them and hate them, you’re wrong. Black Sheep These curds are a delightful surprise. They are made with pancake batter, topped with powdered sugar, and served with syrup. Sounds weird, right? It is. Oddly enough, it works. Black Sheep has an awesome menu overall, but their curds deserve to be recognized on this list. They are also made with cheese from Clock Shadow Creamery and they are absolutely some of the best in Milwaukee. Camino Camino has two locations – Milwaukee and West Allis. This is a list for the City of Milwaukee so we will focus on that location. Camino is known for a lot of things – their wings, their burgers, and their handmade perogies. Which are all delicious… but don’t sleep on their curds. They are also made with Clock Shadow Creamery cheese and served with Russian Dressing. The dressing is a bit different, but it pairs very well with the cheese curds. Lakefront Brewery You didn’t actually think I was going to leave out Lakefront Brewery, did you? They have been rated top curds in MKE for years and years. There’s a reason: they are delicious. Unshockingly, they are also made with Clock Shadow Creamery cheese curds. They are made with Lakefront’s homemade beer batter and served with some of the best ranch in the city. Every Thursday, Lakefront offers a unique curd flavor: pizza, chocolate covered strawberry, jalapeno… the list goes on. Lakefront Brewery is a Milwaukee staple and their cheese curds are no exception. Heirloom Heirloom began as a a farm to table food truck but they opened a location in Bay View and they make amazing food. I absolutely could not leave them off of this list. CLOCKSHADOW CHEESE battered perfectly. Somehow, these babies are always gigantic. They are served with a drool-worthy jalapeno ranch AND a tomato jam on the side. The people that run this truck are just as wonderful as the cheese curds they serve. These are a must-have in Milwaukee. Who’s on Third Who’s on Third serves battered curds using Lakefront Brewery Riverwest Stein. The cheese curds melt in your mouth. The cheese pull is magnificent. They are served with ranch, marinara, AND Who’s Sauce (fricken delish). Although I’m a ranch girl through and through, I love a unique sauce and I love a variety of sauces even more. Crafty Cow In a turn of events, Crafty Cow uses Ellsworth Creamery cheese in their curds! Ellsworth actually has an entire festival where vendors make tons of unique dishes with curds. I’ve attended. It’s magical. I digress… the curds at Crafty Cow are so tasty. They are served in a big metal bowl and I very much appreciate the portion size. They batter is extremely light and the cheese is super stretchy AND super melty. It’s the perfect combination. They are served with homemade ranch which I love so very much. O’lydia’s I stopped by O’lydia’s on a total whim for my birthday a few years back. It was a completely random choice on my end and it resulted in so much delicious food. They use Clock Shadow cheese curds which makes total sense … they are practically neighbors. These curds are served with a spicy pineapple sauce. Weird? Yes. Delicious? Also yes. The sauce is extremely flavorful and pairs so well with the cheese. These curds are breaded and I like them a lot, which says something because I tend to gravitate towards batter. On Tap The curds at On Tap were eaten on a whim, too, and boy did they make me happy. I’m not sure what cheese they use, but I know that their beer batter is made with Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. It is so light and crispy and the cheese pull is phenomenal. These are also served with homemade ranch and it passed the thick test. On Tap is newer to the scene but they know what they’re doing. A restaurant that knows how to make good curds is a stellar spot in my book.

Over the first weekend in May, Mike and I got the chance to check out Mineral Point, Wisconsin. It's about a 2-hour drive west of Milwaukee and just an hour west of Madison. Mineral Point is Wisconsin’s third-oldest city and proudly calls itself the “Most Cornish Town in the USA.” The town is full of stunning buildings made from 19th-century limestone. So, what did we get up to in this historic Wisconsin spot? Our weekend was jam-packed, and we didn’t quite get through everything on our list, but that just shows how much there is to do in Mineral Point—it’s definitely a place worth visiting. Lodging in Mineral Point We stayed at The Lion & The Porcupine in the Haven room, and it was a great home base for the weekend. The Lion & The Porcupine is perfect walking distance to food & shops. The building has been recently remodeled, so everything feels clean, updated, and thoughtfully done while keeping the building’s historic character. There are also shared spaces, including a communal kitchen and living area, which made it easy to relax and settle in between exploring around town. It’s a historic, beautiful, and comfortable option right in the heart of Mineral Point. Food & Drink in Mineral Point There are so many good spots to eat in Mineral Point - we didn't have time to try them all! Our first stop for dinner was Popolo Pizzeria and it did not disappoint. We started with the spinach artichoke dip (highly recommend) and each got our own pizza (not necessary, but that’s what we did). Everything was really tasty and the restaurant is full of charm. We stopped by Midway Bar & Grill for lunch and ordered their steak sandwich with waffle fries. The sandwich exceeded my expectations. They are known for their pizza at Midway Bar, but we wanted to switch it up a bit. We started one of our mornings at Wild Blue Yonder Coffeehouse. They were celebrating their two year anniversary and giving out samples of Strawberry Shortcake. It was so, so good. Mike and I both ordered lattes and it was the perfect spot to caffeinate first thing in the morning. We also grabbed breakfast at Pointer Cafe - if you are looking for an old school diner, this is it. The portions were big, the service was great, and the vibes were immaculate. Mike tried the biscuits and gravy while I had a classic breakfast. It was all so good. I have heard great things about Eliza’s Lounge so we stopped there for after dinner cocktails. It has such a great vibe! They have a full menu and live music on the weekends. It was one of my favorite spots throughout this trip. We heard great things about American Wine Project so we had to make the stop - such an adorable place! They have tons of seating inside and a gorgeous outdoor area to enjoy wine. Mike and I bought purchased flights and tried samples of several flavors. Shopping in Mineral Point Historic downtown Mineral Point has so many fun shops to visit! We spent hours in the afternoon paroozing the stores. The Violet Fig is a European-style florist and tea-boutique. If I was a loose-leaf tea drinker, this place would be my haven. The store smells amazing and all of the items are perfectly curated. The Station is a beautifully curated yarn shop offering everything you need to create knitted and crocheted pieces along with group knitting spaces. Even if you don’t knit, you’ll find Wisconsin-made gifts and other handmade items. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves crafting. I have followed Republic of Letters Books on social media for a while and was so excited to finally visit. This might be one of the hippest bookstores I’ve ever been to. Republic of Letters Books has a wide variety of books, both new and used, a little something for everyone. I love the vibes inside and even left with a new-to-me-book! To know me is to know I love a sweet treat, so we had to make a stop at High Street Sweets. High Street Sweets is a nostalgic candy shop packed with retro treats, local chocolates, and colorful displays that make it hard to leave empty-handed. Aspen Ridge Home & Garden was the last spot on our shopping spree. It is more than just a garden center; it feels like a destination in itself. The space blends plants, restored antiques, garden art, and home décor, creating an eclectic mix that’s both inspiring and easy to wander through. Outdoor Fun in Mineral Point We were lucky enough to be in Mineral Point during the opening weekend of the Mineral Point Market! I bought a homemade pop tart (yum) and Mike purchased a crocheted blanket that he fell in love with. The market takes place on Saturday mornings from May-October where you can find local produce, bread, and other homemade goods. We wanted to get some movement in while we were visiting, so we hiked Merry Christmas Mine Hill. The Merry Christmas Mine Hill is about a 1-mile loop that brought us past old mining artifacts – it was super cool! It is located across the street from Pendarvis – a Wisconsin Historical Site. Unfortunately, Pendarvis was not yet open for the season, but we wandered around the grounds a bit anyway. We also roamed around Shake Rag Alley Center of the Arts. There were a few workshops going on, but we stuck to exploring the grounds. I will definitely be signing up for a workshop when I visit again, though! They have workshops for things like blacksmithing, glass bead making, embroidery, and more.

This is a part two to my first blog listing 5 Day Trips from Milwaukee ( read it here ). Each of these places is within a 2-hour drive time which makes them all great options for a quick getaway from the city. Whitewater I love Whitewater . It is absolutely one of my favorite places in Wisconsin. Whitewater is located about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Milwaukee. Their food/drink scene is superb with places such as Barista Cats Café , Staller Estates Winery , Jessica’s Diner , and Sweet Spot Café . There is an ample amount of places to shop with some of my favorites being The Fuzzy Pig (GREAT place for seasonal décor and gifts!) and Dale’s Bootery - because what woman doesn’t want a new pair of shoes? There are also so many outdoor activities in Whitewater! I love hiking and there are multiple sections of the Ice Age Trail located in Whitewater. There are also lots of lakes that are perfect for beach days, boating, and water sports. So much to do! Fort Atkinson Not too far from Whitewater is another amazing Wisconsin town: Fort Atkinson . Fort Atkinson is located about 1-hour northwest of Milwaukee. Fort Atkinson is such a tight knit community and has so many things to offer. The Fireside Dinner Theatre is located here and if you have never been, you must visit! The dinner food is amazing and the theatre productions are highly entertaining. Aside from that, Fort Atkinson is filled with great places to eat like Paddy’s Irish Pub (get the cheese curds), Beauty and the Bean , The Island Bar and Grill (great if you are looking for lakeside views), and Frostie Freeze for dessert. You can also make a stop at Jones’ Market for some local artisan goods and a quick sandwich. Lake Geneva Lake Geneva is southwest from Milwaukee and you can get there in just under an hour. Lake Geneva is known for being a tourist destination for Chicago-ians (is that a word?) but don’t let that steer you away. The town is absolutely beautiful and has so much to offer. If you are a golfer, Lake Geneva is a great place to go. If you enjoy being on the water, you can do that in Lake Geneva, too. Additionally, they have several great places to eat including two of my favorites: Flat Iron Tap and Oakfire Pizza . If you are a coffee aficionado, be sure to visit Inspired Coffee . The best people work there! There are tons of boutique stores in the downtown area that are great for browsing around. Shop til you drop, baby! Baraboo Baraboo is a little further of a drive than the aforementioned destinations but it is worth the miles. If you are thinking about Wisconsin Dells right now – think again. Baraboo is about 1 hour 45 minutes from Milwaukee and located OUTSIDE of Wisconsin Dells. They are a town that deserves to be recognized. There are so many great places for a foodie but one of my favorites is Tumbled Rock Brewery . They have a gigantic outdoor patio and grass area with an outside bar and live music. They serve awesome pizza and delicious craft beer. It’s an experience, not just a restaurant. Speaking of craft beer, another great thing to do in Baraboo is visit the Al Ringling Mansion and Brewery . You can take a tour of the brewery and learn all about the history of the Ringling Brothers. Pop on over to the Circus World Museum , too, and check out one of the live performances! Fond du Lac Fond du Lac is just over an hour north of Milwaukee and it is such a cute city! Parts of the city are right on Lake Winnebago which is an awesome lake to spend your summer days. Lakeside Park alone has so many things to offer such as a petting zoo, carousel rides, and more. Downtown Fond du Lac is filled with great restaurants and small shops. One of my absolute favorite places to eat in Fond du Lac is The Salty Pig . If you haven’t had brunch here yet, make the trip just for that. When you are finished with brunch, stop at Ledgerock Distillery for a tasty cocktail and sampling. But before you leave town, make a stop at Kelley’s Country Creamery – some of the best ice cream in Wisconsin.

If you were invited to a "creator retreat" with a bunch of women you have never met, would you go? It's so far out of my comfort zone, I almost said no. But I decided I need to start putting myself into more uncomfortable situations so I said yes and had the best time. There’s something special about getting a group of creative women together in a cozy lake town for a few days; good conversations, great food, and a little space to recharge. That’s exactly what we did during a weekend creator retreat in Waupaca , a charming town known for its Chain O’ Lakes, small-town shops, and relaxed Northwoods feel. Our home for the retreat was the beautiful Dryden Lodge , and it could not have been a more perfect setting. The lodge blends historic character with cozy, modern touches, making it feel both elevated and welcoming the moment you walk in. With spacious common areas, wood details, and plenty of natural light, it’s the the coziest spot and the perfect getaway. Night One: Pizza, Wine & Vision Boards After everyone arrived and settled in, we kicked off the retreat with a relaxed evening at the lodge. Dinner was simple and delicious: pizza and wine as we chit-chatted and got to know eachother better. We created water bottle vision boards, courtesy of Shellady Udoni with United Country, Udoni & Salan Realty Group . Such a fun and creative activity where we decorated water bottles with stickers representing our goals, inspirations, and intentions for 2026. It was the perfect little activity to start the weekend. Day Two: Yoga, Local Food & Downtown Waupaca We started the morning with a peaceful yoga session at the lodge with Kika Schey Yoga . Easing into the day with movement and mindfulness - it was perfect! After yoga, we enjoyed a beautiful charcuterie-style breakfast board from The Gouda Life . The spread was filled with cheeses, fruit, pastries, and other delicious bites that were almost too pretty to eat. After breakfast, Krysten Potega stopped by to give us a little insight on how to become a successful creator. She shared her experiences, answered the 1 million questions we had, and provided some great information on platforms, brand deals, and so much more. We learned so much! Once we were ready to head out, we wandered into downtown Waupaca. Lunch was at Sulten Belly , where we filled the table with colorful salads, hearty sandwiches, and amazing mac and cheese. Shopping & Candle Making No girls’ weekend is complete without a little shopping, and downtown Waupaca has some truly charming local spots. A lot of businesses graciously gave us coupons to their shops and it was so appreciated! We popped into: Country Chic Boutique The Revival Boutique Northern Home Wanderlust Scents Lucky Tree Each shop had its own personality - from stylish clothing and accessories to beautiful home décor. It was the perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon strolling through town. Of course, a coffee stop was necessary. We grabbed drinks at Java Jive , which gave us a much needed caffiene boost. One of the most memorable stops of the weekend was making our own candles at Huck & Finn . During the workshop, we got to blend our own custom fragrances, choosing from a variety of seasonal and classic scents before pouring the wax into beautiful jars to take home. It was such a fun, hands-on activity and the perfect creative break during our weekend. Plus, now every time I light my candle, I get to be reminded of how great our weekend was. Distillery Tour & Evening Drinks In the afternoon, we headed over to Empty Barrel Distillery for drinks and a behind-the-scenes tour. It was fun learning more about their process while sipping delicious handcrafted cocktails. Then we popped into Grand National Lounge for another round of drinks before heading back to the lodge to get ready for dinner. Dinner at Indian Crossing Casino To wrap up the day, we headed to the historic and beautiful Indian Crossing Casino for dinner. Visit Waupaca hosted the dinner for us and everything was perfect. We sampled several small plates: charcuterie, potato leek soup, bruschetta flatbread, cheeseburger sliders, and a deep fried brownie ball for dessert. Between the incredible food, lake views, and great conversation, it was the perfect ending to a full day of exploring. Unfortunately due to Wisconsin weather (Blizzard Elsa), we all headed home after dinner. It was so sad that our trip was cut short, but we made the best out of the time we had together. It was so fun getting to know like-minded ladies from all over the state of Wisconsin and I guarantee we will stay in contact for years to come.

Wisconsin knows cheese — and 2026 is packed with festivals that prove it . From iconic small-town celebrations and summer curd fests to world-class cheese competitions and industry expos, this list rounds up every major cheese festival happening in Wisconsin in 2026. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for your next excuse to eat more cheese, consider this your ultimate guide to a very cheesy year. Beer and Cheese Fest | Madison | January 17, 2026 The first cheese-filled Wisconsin festival is Beer and Cheese Fest  in Madison. This festival has been around for 15 YEARS! General admission tickets cost $74 (unless you snag the early bird price!) and get you unlimited beer and cheese samples. There is a V.I.P. option for a more elusive experience. Make sure you have sober driver to take you home! Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival | Kenosha | April 18, 2026 The Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival is a fundraiser that was created for the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha. There will be live music, beer, and lots of cheese. Tickets are $55 online ahead of time or $60 at the door! Between the Bluffs | La Crosse | April 25, 2026 The Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine and Cheese festival in La Crosse is one you should not miss. I attended this festival a few years ago and it was so much fun! Ample amount of vendors serving up craft beer along with cheese samples to fill your stomach. General admission is $60 -- be one of the first 500 to purchase and save $5! Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival | Little Chute | June 5-7, 2026 Little Chute holds a yearly festival called CheeseFest - Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival . Activities include amusement rides, food booths, live music, a cheese curd eating contest, a cheese curd catching contest, and more. There's an entire weekend of fun to be had! Beer, Bacon, and Cheese | New Glarus | June 13, 2026 This festival is one of the most well known in Wisconsin. Check out Beer, Bacon, and Cheese Festival  in New Glarus for all of your cheesey desires. The festival has several beer and seltzer vendors along with cheese vendors. There is a parade, live music, and tons of fun. Tickets for this one sell quick! Cheese Curd Festival | Ellsworth | June 26-27, 2026 Some may refer to Ellsworth as the Cheese Curd Capital of the state. Ellsworth Creamery puts on an annual Cheese Curd Festival  where vendors create cheese-curd centered dishes like cheese curd tacos, cheese curd ice cream sundaes, and more. There is live music, a car show, shopping, and games for the kids! Cheese Capital Festival | Plymouth | June 26-27, 2026 The Cheese Capital Festival  in Plymouth, Wisconsin is always a hit! The festival consists of a parade, live music, cheese eating contest, foam cheese race, and more. There are dozens of activities for children and TONS of cheese to eat! Colby Cheese Days | Colby | July 17-19, 2026 In a town that shares a name with cheese, would you expect anything less? Colby Cheese Days features a lively carnival, parade, 5k/10k race, car show, peddle tractor pulls, street dances, and free Colby cheese! Sign me up. Blair Cheese Festival | Blair | September 24-27, 2026 Located in Trempealeau County, Blair Cheese Festival boasts a weekend of fun! Catch  a truck and tractor pull, run in the 5k, meander through the car show, and stay for the variety show performed by the local schools. Green County Cheese Days | Monroe | September 18-20, 2026 Green County Cheese Days is a long-running festival celebrating cheese, Swiss traditions, yodeling, copper kettle cheesemaking, cheese foods, and parades. This festival happens every other year, so make sure not to miss it! Drink Wisconsinbly Curd Fest | Milwaukee | October 2026 (exact date not announced yet) The date for Curd Fest has not yet been announced, but this event is put on at Drink Wisconsinbly Pub in Milwaukee, right outside of the Fiserv Forum. Expect to see several cheese vendors, live music, signature cocktails, and more.

Las Vegas is known as a party city - bright lights, gambling, live shows, music, and lots of alcohol. I have spent my fair share of time on the Las Vegas Strip and my favorite: Fremont Street. I love Vegas BUT as a solo female RV-er, hanging out at bars and casinos by myself did not seem like the safest option. I also don't think my dog would have enjoyed spending all of that time alone. So instead, I opted to find a handful of things for us to do within 3-hours from the city of Las Vegas. Buckle up for these places to visit within 3 hours of Las Vegas! Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the closest Vegas activity - approximately 25 minutes west of the city. We actually spent an entire week boondocking on one of the canyon roads - absolutely beautiful! There are several hiking trails to take advantage of as well as rock climbing, OHV trails, mountain biking, and a scenic drive if you're more of a "look don't explore" type of person. This is a great day-trip option if you want to get away from The Strip for a bit! Valley of the Fire State Park Valley of the Fire State Park has been one of my favorite places so far on our trip. It is located approximately 45 minutes north east of Las Vegas. National parks frustrate me because of their dog regulations, so I tend to explore state parks whenever possible. The hiking here is outrageous - so much to see! The red sandstone formations are so picturesque. I could have spent multiple days just exploring. There is a $10 entrance fee ($15 if you are not from NV) but I promise it is worth it. Lake Mead National Recreation Area Lake Mead is approximately 30 minutes east of Las Vegas. We actually disperse camped right on the water after our trip to Valley of Fire. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the largest in the United States! And man is it pretty. Our night was absolutely wonderful - we even heard some wild donkeys in the distance (yes, that's a real thing). The following morning, we hiked a whole bunch before heading out. Gorgeous, gorgeous area with so much to offer. Zion National Park A little further of a drive (2 hours but absolutely worth it) is Zion National Park . This National Park quickly made it's way to being one of my favorites. I only did two short hikes but the views were breathtaking from every angle. I did not hike the infamous "Narrows" because that would have meant leaving Kona in the RV for far too long. Depending on when you visit the park, you may have to use their shuttle service. Because we came during off-season, we were able to drive through ourselves and I think that made for a better experience. I would love to come back here some day and explore even more. Red Cliffs National Recreation Area Before you hit Zion National Park, make a stop at Red Cliffs National Recreation Area in southwest Utah. The recreation area is home to over 130 miles of designated hiking and biking trails. Kona and I went bright and early for a hike but ended up staying there all day. We went on a second hike in the afternoon before leaving - it is just that good! They also have several mountain biking trails and equestrian trails available for public use.

If you're looking for the best food adventure in southern Wisconsin this winter, the Green County Cheese Passport  is the perfect place to start. Green County —often called Swiss-consin —is known for world-class cheese, historic creameries, charming small towns, and some of the most iconic cheese curds in Wisconsin. The Cheese Passport is free, fully digital, and rewards visitors for exploring local cheese shops, wineries, breweries, distilleries, pubs, and restaurants across Monroe, New Glarus, Brodhead, and surrounding communities. You earn points every time you check in, which can be redeemed for cheese-themed prizes or saved for the grand prize drawing. The passport is valid December 21, 2025 until February 15, 2026. If you’re planning a trip to Green County or searching for unique winter things to do in Wisconsin, this passport is a fun and delicious way to explore the region. Below is a detailed guide to the passport itself plus all the cheese-forward dishes I tried along the way. What Is the Green County Cheese Passport? The Green County Cheese Passport is a digital pass that highlights dozens of local businesses and cheese experiences. Visitors earn points by checking in at participating locations. Those points can be turned into rewards like cheese merch, fondue kits, cheese knives, or even actual cheese. It’s also one of the best ways to support local businesses while discovering new places to eat and drink throughout Green County. Green County Wisconsin: What I Ate With the Cheese Passport Below are the exact stops I visited, organized in numerical order, with highlights from each experience. If you're building your own Green County food itinerary, this list is a great place to start. 1. Wood-Fired Flatbread— Bailey’s Run Vineyard (New Glarus, WI) A must-stop for winery lovers, Bailey’s Run Vineyard serves wood-fired pizza with bubbling cheese, blistered crust, and the perfect Wisconsin-meets-wine-country atmosphere. Easily one of the top food experiences in New Glarus. 2. Deep-Fried Cheese Curds — Whiskey Run Distillery (New Glarus, WI) Searching for some tasty cheese curds in Wisconsin? Whiskey Run Distillery serves golden, crunchy curds that are perfectly squeaky on the inside. Pair them with a craft cocktail for the full experience. 3. Grilled Cheese — Spilled Grapes Wine Bar (Monroe, WI) Spilled Grapes Wine Bar offers a gourmet grilled cheese that melts perfectly into a glass of red or white. It’s a warm, relaxing stop for anyone exploring Monroe’s downtown square. 4. Deep-Fried Cheese Curds — Bennett’s Junction House (Monroe, WI) At Bennett's Junction House , you will find a classic Wisconsin bar-style curd: crunchy, generous, and deeply satisfying. This is an essential Monroe curd stop for any cheese passport adventure. 5. Pizza — Petrosino’s (New Glarus, WI) Petrosino’s is a local favorite for hearty, cheesy pizzas that hit the spot after a day of exploring New Glarus. Expect big slices, big flavor, and plenty of gooey melty goodness. 6. Grilled Cheese — Decatur Dairy (Brodhead, WI) Decatur Dairy is a legendary Wisconsin dairy producing award-winning cheese. Their grilled cheese is simple, perfectly toasted, and packed with local flavor. A must-stop for cheese lovers and dairy enthusiasts. 7. Cheeseburger — Suisse Haus (Monroe, WI) The Suisse Haus , a Monroe staple, serves one of the region’s best cheeseburgers — juicy, flavorful, and topped with fresh Wisconsin cheese. Great for families, groups, or anyone craving classic comfort food. 8. Fondue Supplies & Equipment — Alp and Dell Cheese Store (Monroe, WI) Instead of eating fondue, this stop is all about stocking up on Swiss-style essentials. Alp and Dell is one of Green County’s most iconic cheese shops and the perfect place to buy fondue pots, tools, Raclette equipment, and specialty cheeses. 9. Fondue — Chalet Landhaus (New Glarus, WI) For a traditional Swiss fondue experience, Chalet Landhaus is unmatched. Warm, melty cheese served in a cozy chalet setting makes this one of the best winter dining experiences in New Glarus. 10. Chili with Cheese — Baumgartner’s Cheese Store (Monroe, WI) Baumgartner’s is a Green County icon, famous for its Limburger sandwiches — but their chili topped with local cheese is underrated and absolutely worth the stop. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect on a cold Wisconsin day. Why You Should Try the Green County Cheese Passport If you love discovering local restaurants, tasting new cheese, and exploring charming small towns, the Green County Cheese Passport is the perfect winter adventure. It’s family-friendly, road-trip-friendly, and gives you dozens of reasons to visit Monroe, New Glarus, Brodhead, and surrounding communities. Top reasons to try the Cheese Passport: It’s free and easy to use You support locally owned Wisconsin businesses You earn rewards for eating cheese - the grand prize is an overnight stay + fondue dinner for two and a custom cheese board with cheese! It makes planning a weekend or day trip simple The food is incredible everywhere you go Whether you’re a foodie, a Wisconsin traveler, or just here for the cheese curds, this passport turns Green County into a must-visit winter destination.

I can’t believe how long it’s been since I wrote a blog about Milwaukee area breakfast sandwiches! I've got a round up of your next 5 - hopefully a part 5 coming soon! Batter & Mac - Menomonee Falls (CLOSED) I think we all know by now that I LOVE a bacon, egg, and cheese combo. This sandwich from Batter & Mac is served on the flakiest, most delectable croissant, giving it a little extra flare. You'll be coming back for a second before you finish the first. Hen's Deli - Bay View I ordered this bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich at Hen's Deli on an everything bagel to switch things up. This is the first time I've gotten a breakfast sandwich that used hardboiled eggs. Honestly, I didn't love it, even though I love hard boiled eggs. Ally's Powerhouse Cafe - Wauwatosa This one surprised me - there was an ample amount of scrambled eggs on the sandwich and the bacon was cooked perfectly. Ally's Powerhouse Cafe knows what they're doing. You get options for the vessel so I went with the English muffin this time. Overall? Delish. Coffeeville Co. - Brookfield & Jackson I had been eyeing up this sandwich at Coffeeville Co. for awhile and it did not disappoint. Their "Farmers" sandwich is served on a brioche bun with eggs, bacon, sausage, cheese, and roasted tomatoes. It came with a side of ranch. I loved the uniqueness; it was so tasty! The Bread Pedalers - West Allis The sandwich from The Bread Pedalers is simply egg and cheese with an option to add their bacon jam. Of course I added the bacon jam - it was so good! I chose their asiago bagel for this sandwich and I will stand by that decision also; perfection.

If you're new here, I set out on a mission last year to find the best breakfast sandwich in the Milwaukee area. I love a bacon, egg, and cheese sammy and made it my goal to find the most delicious one I could. After several months of "testing" and writing blog posts with 5 sandwiches each, I have combined them all into one list WITH a Google Map . Shout out to my friend Julia of That Wisconsin Couple for the idea and help with creating this. They have a few free digital downloads on their website that you should definitely check out - including a dog friendly map ! If you want to download the Breakfast Sandwiches map to save for later, visit my shop ! *there are a few sandwiches on the map that are not linked to a blog because they are not in the Milwaukee area. Allie Boy's Ally's Powerhouse Café Avenue Coffeehouse Backroads Coffee Batter & Mac (closed) Beauty and the Bean Beerline Café Better Together Café Blue Collar Coffee Blum Coffee Bistro on the Glen Bruegger's Bagels Burnett Dairy Charleston Cafe Coffeeville Co. Corner Bakery Café Fiddleheads Gather Bakehouse Gotham Bagels Grace Coffee Company Hawthorne Coffee Roasters Hen's Deli La Finca Latitude Café Merriment Social Miss Molly's Café Mud Creek Coffee Ney's Premium Meats North Ave Grill Nosh Nook O&H Danish Bakery Roast Coffee Company Rocket Baby Bakery Ruby's Bagels Stone Creek Coffee The Bread Pedalers The City Market Café Urban Fuel Coffee Station West Allis Cheese & Sausage

The time has come! I have created a Google Map with ALLLL of the Wisconsin Cheese Curds I have eaten over the last few years. There are 240+ listings! Each listing on the map includes restaurant name, website, price, sauce type, and photo (if I could find one). The listing also includes ratings for breading, cheese, sauce, and an overall score. The map will continue to be updated as I devour more curds across the state. Make sure to download it so you have it in your pocket the next time you're looking for some melty cheese! Click here to visit the shop - it is only $3! Go ahead and download the breakfast sandwich one while you're at it. Happy eating!