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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Minneapolis to Memphis?
The direct drive from Minneapolis to Memphis is 905 mi (1,456 km), and should have a drive time of 13 hrs 20 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Minneapolis to Memphis, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Saint Louis, Wisconsin Dells, Springfield, Madison, Lake Geneva, La Crosse, Saint Charles, Rockford, and Baraboo, as well as top places to visit like National Eagle Center and Minnesota Marine Art Museum, or the ever-popular Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company.
The top cities between Minneapolis and Memphis are Saint Louis, Wisconsin Dells, Springfield, Madison, Lake Geneva, La Crosse, Saint Charles, Rockford, and Baraboo. Saint Louis is the most popular city on the route. It's 9 hours from Minneapolis and 4 hours from Memphis.
La Crosse is a city on the Mississippi River, in western Wisconsin. Riverboats depart from Riverside Park, where the International Friendship Gardens feature landscape styles from around the world. The Riverside Museum traces the city's history. Dahl Auto Museum has restored classic cars. Grandad Bluff Park offers trails and views of the city. The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Catholic site on wooded grounds.
4% as popular as Saint Louis
24 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Memphis
Located in the southern part of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells is a city known for its sandstone formations that were created by glaciers. The area boasts several amusement parks and entertainment centers, such as Noah's Ark Water Park and Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park. Mirror Lake State Park is a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor activities like camping or hiking on nature trails amidst forested reserves surrounding the lake itself.
28% as popular as Saint Louis
2 minutes off the main route, 24% of way to Memphis
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Baraboo is the largest city in and the county seat of Sauk County, Wisconsin, United States. The largest city in the county, Baraboo is the principal city of the Baraboo Micropolitan Statistical Area which comprises a portion of the Madison Combined Statistical area. Its 2020 population was 12,556. Wikipedia.
6% as popular as Saint Louis
9 minutes off the main route, 25% of way to Memphis
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is situated west of Milwaukee. The area boasts the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol with its dome structure, located on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. The region also offers a glimpse into Wisconsin's immigrant history and farming heritage through the Wisconsin Historical Museum. Visitors can explore Capital City State Trail, a paved pathway that runs past Monona Terrace - Frank Lloyd Wright's lakefront convention center in downtown Madison.
18% as popular as Saint Louis
9 minutes off the main route, 30% of way to Memphis
Lake Geneva, situated in southeastern Wisconsin, is a popular destination for tourists seeking to indulge in the scenic beauty of its lakeside Shore Path. The area boasts numerous Gilded Age mansions constructed by affluent Chicagoans and the 19th-century Black Point Estate and Gardens that served as the summer home of Conrad Seipp, a prominent beer magnate from Chicago.
4% as popular as Saint Louis
36 minutes off the main route, 35% of way to Memphis
I'll never travel to Memphis without this trip planner again
Rockford is a city in northern Illinois. Downtown, the Burpee Museum of Natural History features a dinosaur exhibit. Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum offers rotating exhibits in a Victorian home. Rockford Art Museum exhibits regional American works. The sprawling Anderson Japanese Gardens is across the Rock River. Northeast, Rock Cut State Park shelters muskrats, raccoons and waterfowl.
3% as popular as Saint Louis
6 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to Memphis
Springfield is the capital of Illinois, featuring numerous attractions and landmarks. The Illinois State Capitol boasts an ornate interior with stained glass and sculptures of famous figures. Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Dana-Thomas House in 1904, while the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum provides insight into the life of the 16th U.S. president. Restored home of Lincoln is located nearby, while Oak Ridge Cemetery is where visitors can find Lincoln Tomb in North Springfield.
21% as popular as Saint Louis
3 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to Memphis
8
St Charles
Saint Charles is a city in, and the county seat of, St. Charles County, Missouri, United States. The population was 70,493 at the 2020 census, making St. Charles the 9th most populous city in Missouri. Situated on the Missouri River, St. Charles is a northwestern suburb of St. Louis. Wikipedia.
4% as popular as Saint Louis
15 minutes off the main route, 67% of way to Memphis
St. Louis is a significant metropolis in Missouri that lies on the banks of the Mississippi River. The city boasts the famous 630-foot Gateway Arch, constructed during the 1960s to commemorate Lewis and Clark's exploration and America's westward expansion. Visitors can enjoy scenic vistas of this iconic landmark while cruising on replica paddlewheelers along the riverfront. St.
Most popular city on this route
0 minutes off the main route, 68% of way to Memphis
Best stops along Minneapolis to Memphis drive
The top stops along the way from Minneapolis to Memphis (with short detours) are Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park Resort, and Wisconsin State Capitol. Other popular stops include The House on the Rock, Starved Rock State Park, and Noah's Ark Waterpark.
Wonderful tour! Ethan was fantastic! You could tell he loves his job. He thrived on the history and enjoyed taking questions! We very much enjoyed our tasting. The Chocolate Dunkel is fabulous!
Debbie Weslow — Google review
#1 Tour. A MUST do! We had a wonderful day visiting the Leinenkugel Brewing Company. My husband and I did the Legacy Tour and Pilot Brewery Tour. Both tours were so awesome! It was so neat to see inside brewery on the Legacy Tour! Our tour guide Cindy was so knowledgeable and funny! We enjoyed a flight of beers before going on our next tour of the Pilot Brewery. It was fun seeing the small batches being made and talking with Matt Leinenkugel. We would highly recommend doing both tours to everyone!
K N — Google review
Fantastic experience taking a tour. So much history and a really good walk through of the process. Thanks for making the trip worth it!
John L. — Google review
We did a brewery tour and our tour guide was absolutely amazing. Cade was extremely knowledgeable and made our tour an absolute blast. Afterwords he stopped by our table and answered even more of our questions. We were there for my birthday and I can honestly say this is a must see if you are passing by!
Also… Mix and match your beers!
Ethan Koenig — Google review
A great place to visit for a tou, a flight or just a beer. Did a tour and very informative and personal. Thanks Shelby. The gift shop has something for everyone. Beers on tap are great and different from what is in my beer store. Spent about 2 hours here and had a great time.
Jeff Sullivan — Google review
Fun touristy spot. Exclusive flavors, merchandise for days, polite staff, and brewery tours. Book tours in advance as they sell out.
Only complaints would be the small parking lot, smaller bathrooms, and the lack of wasp control in the outdoor patio.
Would probably go again, but maybe not on the weekends.
Coco LaFousfous — Google review
Wonderful tour! Nancy was our tour guide, and she was fantastic. She only works on Saturdays, but I highly recommend asking to be on her tour. The only bad part about touring on a Saturday is that the factory is not in operating, but I don't think that really took away from our experience. We would definitely come back. The 5oz sample tickets are a great way to taste different beers in the lodge you might not normally try. For around $15 a person for the tour and 4, 5oz beers, I thought it was definitely worth it!
English Teacher — Google review
Just happened to stop for gas and saw a sign on the way into town, decided to take a road break and stopped in for the tour.
Informative, guide was great, didn't just throw a bunch of facts at ya, even let one of the guests lead the tour for a minute with some information they knew...then the samples !! Very Nice ! great gift shop, lots to choose from, would love to go back when they have the food trucks !
Tyler Erdmann — Google review
Awesome brewery in a beautiful location. Very cool staff and delicious cheese curds. Love their brewology recipes, too.
Andrea Review — Google review
Love Shandy... What a cool place! Too soon for Christmas, but still awesome. I wish I had more time to take the tour.
Gary L. Shaw — Google review
Super fun brewery to check out. It’s a must do in Chippewa Falls. Lots of areas to order beer inside. Tons of souvenirs and clothing options. Indoor and outdoor seating. Limited food, they did have a food truck parked outside to order from. Parking lot and free on street parking available.
Brook S — Google review
Stopped in early on Saturday. The bar was empty, but the beer was tasty. Clothing is a bit expensive but fun to browse.
Chris Turner — Google review
Touristy destination brewery, but they fully embrace it. All of their beers on tap is nice, but the 50/50 mixes they have are the real attraction. A lot of them combine the sweetness of their shandies with darker beers which works incredibly well. We got a 50/50 pint and 2 small pours for $10 which was a welcomed price tag compared to west & east coast breweries.
They offer brewery tours and merch if that's your thing. As far as destination breweries go, it's done well.
Nate Larson — Google review
A must stop for all beer fans and even non-beer fans. Historic brewery with incredible welcome center featuring fantastic servers/bartenders. Employees really seem to enjoy working there. Almost 1 dozen beer styles on tap, including new releases. Tours are fun and well paced. Outside grounds are well maintained.
Patrick Hartel — Google review
We took a tour of the brewery. Our guide, Shelby, was amazing and super knowledgeable. Beer was amazing and ice cold, awesome for a warm day. $15.00 well spent on an awesome experience and with (4) 5 ounce tasters included.
Fantastic place! Wonderful sanctuary where injured eagles, who are unable to survive in the wild can live out their lives being well taken care of. Seeing bald eagles in person has been on my bucket list forever and now I've actually gotten to see them! So majestic and amazing! Also saw them flying over the Mississippi River too!
See the largest eagle art collection upstairs, featuring gorgeous paintings and artifacts. Highly recommend a visit.
Debra Whelan — Google review
Fantastic center. Highly informed people answering all questions delightfully. The exhibits are fun and informative. I enjoyed seeing the multiple Audubon pages of the bald eagle.
There was a presentation at the facility across the street. We weren't able to attend because all of the seats were already taken. The show was at 1 and we got there at about 12:30 so prepare appropriately if you'd like to see it.
There is a great patio outside of the center. It was raining so we weren't able to go out there but it looked beautiful.
It is worth a second trip so I look forward to going back.
Brian Stankiewicz — Google review
Easy to find and a beautiful building. Grant was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. You can tell that he loves his job! We had a great time learning more about eagles.
Joan Gerland — Google review
Great place to check out. Have live Eagles that can not be released to the wild due to their injuries before rehabilitation. Great viewing are of the river with scopes to try and spit birds. A huge Eagle paraphernalia collection, activities for kids and adults. Fun gift shop area. Part of Blue Star Museums for military.
Natalie Koffarnus — Google review
Great place to visit. Lots to learn and see. The live eagle display was so worth seeing and listening to the keepers answer questions. Also the extra cost for the program is worth it, too.
Kelly Doris — Google review
It's cool for a one time visit, it seems like they do a lot of good work but I wish they made it easier to see the eagles, they were behind doors with only small windows. I'd recommend calling before going to see if the birds will be out or if you can sign up for some sort of interaction. The museum portion was interesting.
k anderson — Google review
Went on a family vacation this weekend to the Wabasha to explore the Eagle Center and other local establishments. The Eagle Center is amazing! Very informative, the live Eagle ambassadors and the knowledgeable staff!! The center is beautiful and something for all ages!
Looking forward to the outdoor amphitheater!!
J Schr — Google review
Very educational. Great exhibits and live eagles/ eagle education programs. Good for all ages, but better if children are old enough to able to read and learn from exibits.
Jerry Harper — Google review
Personally I would not go back.
There were only 3 real eagles to see, not much to do with kids.
Behind the building - beautiful river and bridge but you can enjoy it without going inside
Olya Harytovich — Google review
A great stop while in Wabasha! Very educational and laid out well. The center itself is not very big so you don’t need to plan more than an hour to look at everything. The educational program was extra but I highly recommend doing it. The presentation was an hour long and we learned so much in addition to seeing an eagle close up! The presenter was very knowledgeable and did a fantastic job. They also have two gift shop areas with fun souvenirs.
Megan West — Google review
Really interesting and amazing center to visit. Highly recommend! Very friendly staff, very clean facilities, can take a few minutes here or an hour depending on how much you want to read or how long you want to take. Definitely worth the visit. Learned lots!
Cat G — Google review
Very neat place! Three indoor birds (from injury) allow up close access to eagles and their calls, behavior, etc. Great staff provided tons of education around each bird and in general. Upper level has loads of great hosting addition to bird info
Bikes Boats Boots WI — Google review
Another great visit to the Eagle Center. Brought a friend who had never been there and we went to the 45 minute program and got to meet Ambassador Angel who is my favorite. Lots to look at in two separate buildings along with the new museum upstairs. Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours if you want to see it all. In the Summer months you can take an Eagle cruise down the river which I did last year and it was fabulous!
Nancy Benzinger — Google review
We rented a houseboat and docked at the Eagle Center for a few hours but didn't get to go in because some of the people I was with didn't want to. But the outside was beautiful and clean. There is even a fascinating park and water feature next to it. I'm coming back with a friend later this fall to visit the center and check out the eagles.
DiAnna Tegen — Google review
The National Eagle Center is a wonderful place. We've visited several times and will again, bringing our children and grandchildren. Not only does the center offer fun, educational exhibits, and interactive classes, but they also put funds toward important work.
I recommend this amazing spot. The river views alone are breathtaking, but the eagle ambassadors are majestic!
J.M. Northup — Google review
Great place to learn, not just about the birds but also look into American history.
New to the area so parking was questionable but we found a spot a couple blocks away near some ongoing construction.
Expansive museum offering classic & contemporary marine-themed paintings & sculpture, plus a garden.
Wow! I can't believe I've never been and it's right in my back yard. So nice! I took pics of what I could, but there are a few rooms where no photography is allowed. We got there late so we could really only take in a small bit but we will definitely be going back.
Chad Clark — Google review
Today was the first time ever that our 9-yr old and 6-yr old granddaughters visited an art museum. I anticipated spending at most one hour at the museum and prepared them for their first visit to understand what they would see and what behavior expectations were. Thanks to a little preparation and the Bingo Scavenger Hunt the museum has ready in 3 different difficulty levels, my girls had an incredibly successful and rewarding visit they will not soon forget! We came ready with sketch pads and a pencil to draw a favorite piece of art. The museum offered a pencil bag with a full colored pencil set, a variety of pencils in different hardnesses for shading, and a pencil sharpener for their use! My granddaughters were quite excited and enthralled by the Bingo activity, and the other few activities set up for children, such as the table with the paper shredder, the art table to take a photo of their artwork and display it in a virtual quilt projected on the wall, and learning how to be an "artivist". Furthermore, they sat on the ground to sketch a photo and a painting, and learned what Impressionism is as well as the immense talent the makers of these pieces of art have. The girls and I have painted together oh so many times and started to understand the magnitude of skill of these artists. I cannot thank the museum staff enough for truly understanding how to help children interact with art! This was a gift that continued to give: Once at home, they grabbed their colored pencils and finished their sketches, took photos of them, shared them with their friends, and proudly showed them to their parents. The older granddaughter told her mother how much she LOVED the art museum and she'd like to go to more art museums. I wanted to cry when I heard this!! They are planning their next visit to a nearby art museum they have never made the time to see. I plan on the many art museums in the Twin Cities in the next year. Thank you for having had such a positive influence on these children.
C Sturm — Google review
This museum was way above and beyond my expectations. The incredible diversity of extremely well-known and internationally recognized names in art, particularly in impressionistic art, was unbelievable. This was an incredible gem - I am still legitimately surprised that their collection is so amazing. It cost approximately $9 per adult to get in ($3 if you are a student) and the setting is really pretty – you can see barges and Bluffs and there is lots of outdoor seating. This is certainly one of the nicest private collections in the Midwest. Five stars, but only because I can’t give it six!
Jason Christenson — Google review
What a surprise this was. I had no idea it existed until I drove by. Entry is $10, $8 for seniors and less for kids. Cool building overlooking the river. They had one gallery just loaded with classic painter's works...Cezzane,Gougin,Picasso, Manet. Don't expect a big city collection but for a small town museum, this one is very impressive!
Andrew Hayman — Google review
Autistic and sensitive friendly. Beautiful pictures and able to take pictures.
Garden art is interesting outside as well
Christine Goatley — Google review
This art museum has six galleries with a variety of community-engaged activities integrated into it - very engaging. Plus, a lovely gift shop and location. A great road trip from the Twin Cities!
Rebecca Froehlich — Google review
Stunning art exhibits inside the museum and natural beauty outside the museum. The art, permanent and temporary exhibits, are worthy of the absolute best big city museums, and yet we can find them here in rural Minnesota.
Tami Groth — Google review
Great exhibition! Very friendly and helpful staff. In my opinion a must when you visit this area. Be careful not to miss the turnoff .
Thomas Droll — Google review
Super cool place. They have student ticket prices. Lots of friendly staff, and they really put in the work to make your experience a good one. They also had a kids area, and miscellaneous interactive things to do. My boyfriend is a marine life nerd, so this was a perfect place to spend the day. We will be back!
A. Marie — Google review
A wonderful museum -- I'm a member. It's worth the drive from the Twin Cities to visit. There is always something new and wonderful.
Douglas Shambo II — Google review
This museum is surprisingly nice, well done, and large. There are six different exhibits inside that are very different but relate to marine life or nature in some way. At the time of visit, there was a special exhibit from the New York Historical Society called The Poetry of Nature. The worker in the room went above and beyond to give us recommendations on where to start, a little background, and some other small but significant details that would not have been known without him. The museum is right along the Mississippi which is also very nice and convenient. There is lots of parking and offer discounted prices for many groups of people such as elderly, students, and kids. Wheelchair accessibly is also great with wheelchair accessible parking, first floor entrance, and ADA-compliant bathrooms.
Jacob Kobilarcsik — Google review
The museum is an amazing experience. You don't expect something like this in a small town. This was my second time and the art always takes my breath away. So many unique artists come through. There are current unique pieces and some amazing classical paintings. This time there were paintings from the Hudson River historical society and sculptures by Courtney Matteson and her work was powerful. You know how she feels about the coral reefs health in this world. Her art makes you stop and take stock of our responsibility to our planet. I highly recommend.
Deb V — Google review
I love this museum!!! The events and galleries are fantastic. They added this accessibility cart, which I love! There's a wonderful spot outside with tables for enjoying the river or enjoying a picnic outside of the building. See the gyotaku exhibit while there's still time!
Mj — Google review
Attended the Winona garden tour & the MMAM participated. Beautiful gardens surround the property and are an extension of the galleries. The path was pea gravel and this offered some complexities for mobility but it was found some areas were more difficult than others. Took the opportunity to see the art galleries offerings. This was an unexpected delight. Work this into your travel plans.
This enduring park has trails, open spaces & a band shell & also hosts an annual Riverfest.
Riverside Park is a must visit anytime of the year but especially during the Christmas season when its decorated with an amazing amount of lights and other decorations. Plus leading up to Christmas Santa is there w his reindeer. In the summer time you can visit there and see the riverboats and even book a ride on one, or just sit and relax.
Michael Gerrits — Google review
Beautiful waterfront walkway and green space. The space can be enjoyed all year long. The Rotary Lights at winter are beautiful and fun and the flowerpots and fountains during summer are gorgeous. Great space to watch the sunset or attend the MoonTunes music sessions. Peaceful views of the Mississippi and the boats passing by. The statues and monuments here are well done and are lovely tributes. There is not a playground but the area is family and pet friendly.
House Of Hallmen (Jessica) — Google review
My wife and I traveled to LaCrosse specifically to go see the Christmas lights in Riverside Park. It was a wonderful experience. It was very well organized an beautifully executed. I can't say enough about the entire display and park. It is definitely something we will go see again.
Paul Pasker — Google review
I absolutely love going here. Any time of the year! The river is beautiful day or night, warm or cold. It offers many places to sit and find some peace or walk and enjoy some nature in downtown. The friendship garden is especially beautiful in spring/summer/fall. I have spent many days here finding some peace and reflection.
Klarista Spragg — Google review
Would be better in summer but I cant complain. A little hard to find a ADA parking spot but we made it work. Love the views. Great relaxing time. Looking forward to return. Maybe ride on the boat. Lacrosse is a nice place
Rachel Chapin — Google review
Winter wonderland! Beautiful Christmas set up makes for a lovely festive walk warms the heart and the heart helps to warm the body on this cold windy Wisconsin day.
Nicki Urbanio — Google review
Perfect park to spend either relaxing and people watching, walking a dog, or biking. Nice flower beds, a beautiful water view
Anna Hayward — Google review
We were down in Riverside Park area to go see the LST 325 Ship. They had porta potties set up. As it was a hot day again Monday there were plenty of places to sit and rest. I believe restrooms are being built. A great addition to the park area.
Paula Dahl — Google review
A wonderful spot to make some memories down by the river! There's some modernization going on, but the park is still walkable and enjoyable. An evening stroll was the perfect way to unwind and take in the parks amenities.
Guillermo Bailey — Google review
Loved this walk. A little chilly and windy yesterday but really pretty with the bridge in the background. Nice place for a photoshoot. Can’t wait to see the images on my camera. Really easy access and parking. If you have grandparents still around and they need a wheelchair , this is the perfect walk with them.
Heather Lopez — Google review
Great adventure to see all the Christmas lights and activities at the park. Great displays, music and live Nativity scenes that you can walk through or drive along the route to see. There was a fire pit area and an igloo built to have warming areas along the way. Especially great for little ones or older folks. A truly magical family event!
Arija Noel — Google review
Experience the beauty of the Mississippi River at Riverside Park in La Crosse, Wisconsin. With scenic views, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, this park offers a perfect setting for outdoor activities. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside or relax in the peaceful atmosphere.
Liz DeHaan — Google review
Riverside park is an amazing winter wonderland for Christmas lights! Live reindeer, nativity scenes, fire pits for s’mores and horse drawn carriages! I highly recommend going! We drove from Alabama and we have been two years in a row!
Adam Beams — Google review
Beautiful river front park with International Friendship Gardens at one end, a neat bandstand in the middle, fountain and lots of shade and areas to walk. Well maintained! Summer concerts in the park in Thursday nights are a bonus. You can access LaCrosse Queen Riverboat Cruises here, too. Short walk to many good places to eat, including The Pearl for ice cream, coffee or other sweet treats on a hot day.
Nicole Smith — Google review
Great park that hosts live music during the summer, rotary lights over Christmas, cool boats like this, and other cool amenities. Definitely worth checking out the view of the Mississippi River Valley.
Grandad Bluff is a scenic overlook located in the Mississippi River Valley that provides far-reaching views of La Crosse and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy the view from a viewing platform and shelter on top of the bluff, which also offers shady spots to rest and restrooms for convenience. The site also includes wonderful displays of history that add to its appeal. The location is worth the drive up for those seeking beautiful views and a glimpse of historical significance.
We came to visit and explore the La Crosse area over spring break and were told by many of the locals to visit Grandad Bluff during our stay. I can see why, the views are breathtaking! My family and I would love to travel back up in the fall. I can’t imagine how beautiful it must be that time of the year!
Kendra Schultz — Google review
Beautiful views up on Grandad Bluff. The wind can get rather cold, especially in March so dress accordingly and bring binoculars if you want to get a close up on the stunning valley views.
Crystal Petrey — Google review
Beautiful views, shady spots to rest, restrooms and wonderful displays of history. Worth the scenic drive up for sure!
Inspired2RV — Google review
Best place to visit during fall. Amazing view and trails.
Vinay Panchal — Google review
Very beautiful and such a large park. There are gorgeous overlooks and trails everywhere. I'm a photographer and this was an awesome spot to take engagement photos in Wisconsin!
Elizabeth Meyer — Google review
It was a cool, windy day, but still beautiful! The pathways are always kept clear of debris and the Fall foilage is at its peak. You can see for miles. Worth checking out!
Renee Pletzer Dykmann — Google review
Really great view of La Crosse and surrounding area up here. It's been a few years since I've been to this spot but I have some classic photos to add. Was here on a date and it went well, partially due to this location where we had to snuggle up since it was somewhat cold and windy that day. I am trying to make it back here this summer so I may be back with some updates once I can find myself a date. haha. But seriously I will be back soon.
Hank Zane — Google review
Worth the 10 minute trek up the bluff for a spectacular view overlooking La Crosse and the Mississippi River Valley.
Bishop Media-Ken — Google review
Beautiful trail system with challenging trails and amazing views, didn’t see many others as we enjoyed a lovely lacrosse day in the fall!
Chris & Linda Lee — Google review
Beautiful views and historical landmarks. Trails were hilly and well kept. It is very warm in June—90s, humid and limited breeze on the trails. Keep this in mind when planning your hike. There were bathrooms up at the top.
Natasha Girard — Google review
Love the views. Easy to walk to. Bathroom clean
The park was well maintained. A must see land mark ‼️
Victoria Cook — Google review
Fantastic views of the city and surrounding area. Well kept up park and worth the visit.
Rick Dzielinski — Google review
This was my 2nd trip but my families 1st time to visit. Love the beauty of the area!
Tyler & Sue Riddle — Google review
Absolutely beautiful view and great new trails recommend for meditation or nature vibes…. Enjoyed and I will be back 😃
Natalie Jo Baker — Google review
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La Crosse, WI 54601, USA
I'll never travel to Memphis without this trip planner again
Mount Olympus is a water park with attractions for all ages that is perfect for summertime fun. The park features unique rides, including a 360-degree loop and a steep 110-degree turn, and its indoor theme park has plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained all summer long.
One of my favorite water parks!! The wait in line wasn't bad either. Love how there is more than 1 wave pool! The theme park was also amazing!! Love all the roller coasters and the Trojan horse go kart track!! We will definitely be back when visiting the Dells again!!
Jamie D'Amico — Google review
Awesome place to go to during the summer, but not so much after Labor Day. Indoor waterpark have less things to do especially for lil kids. Nice staffs.
Joy Cabanlong — Google review
The tickets were a great price! The food was okay, you would have thought for the price you’d gotten more burger or condiments. Finding a table on the other hand was hard. People had set their towels, cups, or shoes on a table so people couldn’t eat on them. People would hog the tables leaving none to actually sit and eat. The life guards were not friendly, not one of them smiled back at me or my son. One life guard was sitting with his feet propped up on the controls while kids were getting on the tube for the medusa slide. The light was flashing red and he still let them get on and go. Seen one life guard dozing off as we were floating in the lazy river. The bathrooms had tiny stalls and no privacy for showers or mothers. I had to change my son in front of a bunch of other people. I’m a single mom so there was no giving him to his dad. I was disappointed with the customer service, locker/bathrooms, dinning and staff. The locker rental was $30 for all day, kinda expensive so I could see why people set stuff on tables. Will possibly return but with less expectations.
Sara — Google review
I went last summer and if you’re thinking of going this year, just don’t waist your time or money. Every line to each attraction was ridiculously long. The wave pool, which is literally huge, had people in it standing shoulder to shoulder. There were absolutely no free chairs. I get that places can be busy but there should be a standard for how many people can even buy tickets for the day when there’s that many.
Kasandra Keller — Google review
Went here because my daughter loves greek mythology and insisted we visit. We stayed in the resort rooms and it was less money that way. Wasn't sure if it was worth it, but we really enjoyed it. Cool shops and nice places to eat. The funnel cakes are great! The 9ft wave pool was by far our favorite. Only stayed for two nights, so we didn't see everything. Great stop and fantastic for kids
James B — Google review
My ten year-old son and I just returned from three most enjoyable days at Mt. Olympus. Unfortunately, Mom was recovering from the flu, so it was a boys-only vacation, but huge fun nevertheless. We had booked at the Hotel Rome which included access to the resort. Being March, all the outdoor attractions were closed, but we were able to fill a couple of days at the indoor water park.
First off, the rooms are nothing like as grim as reported by other reviewers. Having checked in at a remote location and fighting off the insidious peddlers of timeshares, we headed to the Hotel Rome, building 1. We were easily able to park a few yards from the main entrance and quickly found our way to the third floor. Somewhat perturbed by some raucous parties in rooms close to the elevator, things seemed to quieten down the further away we headed.
Our room, equipped with two queen beds and a bunk, seemed perfectly adequate. Sheets were nice and soft and everything was as clean as could be expected for a room that sees hundreds of visitors a year and, best of all, there were no bedbugs. We had been concerned about noise levels, so had brought a white noise machine which we used every night in spite of our room being as silent as a tomb after 9pm.
Storage space in this room was a bit of a joke, so we essentially lived out of our suitcases for the entire visit. Similarly, the TV had little to offer, so we either read or gamed when we returned in the evenings.
Just off the lobby, the hotel offers an arcade that I would frankly not recommend to anyone who isn't keen on the prospect of bankruptcy. The claw machines are a total ripoff (as they usually are) and the tickets buy practically nothing at the shop. Think of Steve Martin in The Jerk. Similarly, the indoor theme park is a waste of time, as only the bumper cars are free, the arcade games are rigged and the whole thing is a bit tawdry.
As for the water park, this is the place to go, offering a couple of really great rides and plenty to keep a ten year old occupied for almost an entire day. My son rode the Hydra 21 times and queued up eight times for the absolutely thrilling (and incredibly scary for this older gent) Medusa's Waterwheel. This is a marvel of water park technology, and should not be missed. Unless you have a pacemaker, that is.
If you can visit the Hotel Rome when the rates are good, this is a great value. You will need to eat and drink off-site, though, as the catering here is abysmal. Otherwise, go for it!
Neil Charles — Google review
This place was a blast, great fun for the entire family. They have pools, water slides, roller coasters, go karts, and kiddie rides. They also have the normal theme park foods as well as a dime in restaurant, bars, candy store, and gift shops. Lines are long but not as long as great America.
Bradley Ott — Google review
We bought tickets last year 5 for $20. If you pay more then that it isn’t worth it. Very very small indoor water area. A lot of construction. Rollercoasters are very jerky. Worst then last year. Indoor theme park closed.Tons and tons of walking. $25 for parking is outrageous considering how much walking you need to do from the lot to even reach the water area. Food was overpriced like other waterparks in the area. Overall unless you get a great deal on entrance I would go to Noah Ark instead.
Megan Biggs — Google review
Booked and paid in advance, got to the resort the day of check in and price was much less to pay the day of check in. Spoke to staff how offered a credit, much appreciated. Building 16 - not close to the water park we had to drive down each time. The beds were horrible, room lacked enough towels, no paper towels near sink, no iron. The parks indoor area with the hot tub closed for Saturday and could not find towels for the outside water areas right away; communication was lacking.
Still a much needed memorable experience for my family just not as good as 8 years ago when we came.
Davianna Yahudah — Google review
I booked my tickets online. When I checked the room that I was given I was highly disappointed the carpets were disgusting
and the room smelled funky and you could tell they didn’t even cleaned the windows or mirrors. I went to complain to one of the persons that checks in people and she gave me another room at a different location that they had and I was happy with the outcome. They didn’t give me a hard time at all and were able to find a resolution to my problem. I was happy and my family had fun at the water park and the roller coasters. I had a great time here. Just remember not to book a standard room because those normally have carpet. It would also be nice if the other buildings had a guest laundry the one we stayed at didn’t have one.
Itzel Lopez — Google review
We stayed over Xmas weekend and honestly, it's the little things that made not give 5stars. We stayed on property which was nice and we had a 1st floor room which was also really nice and easy and close to the main door. Booking wasn't exactly clear or easy online and I got nervous at first. I've heard horror stories about staying off property and wanted to make sure we were staying at hotel Rome where the actual Waterpark was. Figured out when I called, no big deal. Check in was off property which was actually kind of nice because as soon as we got there we just got out of the car and went straight to out room and didn't have to worry about chasing excited kids around the lobby. Got in the room and it was a decent size room! But... no true storage area. Our things were somewhat scattered throughout the room the whole stay... which again, no big deal but would have been nice to have even a small dresser or table other then a shelf thing under the TV... but couldn't use it as a table because we used it as a storage area... disappointing, especially for how much dead space there was as well as money we spent, but again, no big deal. The beds were a bit small but were comfortable, the TV was very small and I wish there was some kind of guide page to know what the chanels were but again, no big deal, we spent most of our time out of the room anyway.
Where I did get upset was when we opened the fridge... we did store food like lunch meat, milk (lactose free so almost $5/half gallon) , cheese, mayo... a few other things. I did notice that the temp was a little warm but it was also set to 1 out of 5.... thought maybe it's just set to the warmest setting. Left to the water park and came back ready to make sandwiches and realized we forgot bread, thought we could get some from the little store but they did not carry any food Iike that! Remember that when staying, you will not find old and ends there. We ended up getting McDonald's... went to sleep, woke up ready for cereal and come to find out..THE FRIDGE WAS UNPLUGED THE WHOLE TIME!!! We lost maybe $30 in food and ended up eating out again!! Which is fine... but there was nothing I could do at the point we were at.
When on the bumper cars, 2 of the cars we rode on didn't work but we had to wait until our time stopped until we can get up and change, fine, it happens. I ended up sitting on the sidelines when we had a chance to ride again. My daughter got hit kind of hard and hit her teeth on the stering wheel.. the girl running it was very sweet but did not stop the ride right away. She ran over to around where she was and just started asking from a far if she was OK. My daughter was crying and holding her mouth saying no and finally after a min or so, she ran back over and to stop it but at this point I opened the gate and started looking at the controls trying to figure out where the emergency stop at so I can get her... I don't understand why she didn't stop it to begin with because my daughter was screaming and my other daughter started freaking out for her. She was OK for the most part but did hit it enough to start bleeding... no one came to check on her, which is fine, like I said shewas okay, I got her an icee but feel like it should have just been given to her...
The rest of our trip was great! The Christmas lights were amazing.
I just couldn't help thinking about these little things where I felt cheated or wronged... not enough to say it was a bad trip but I spent extra money or wasted money where I didnt need to or shouldn't of... not that I didn't come prepared but how was this fair?
This was our first time visiting Mt. Olympus but we visit the Dells every year. Other resorts we've stayed at have an area to rent games or movies which I wish this had as well but I didn't see anything saying they did but I also didn't ask.
Might say again but better prepared knowing what to expect now...
1-check the fridge
2- they don't have odds and ends
3-movies/games
4- no storage area
Jessica Diaz — Google review
Bought tickets in advance and got lucky on a weekday that wasn't too busy. The line to the new slide was still too long and none of the other new indoor attractions were completed. One of the main rollercoasters was also under construction so we didn't get to do 2 of the main things we wanted to. Everything else had decent lines though. Food is about what you would expect. We got a whole pizza which was the best deal by far but not even on the menu. They could use a few more restrooms and "you are here displays" since you have to ask for maps now and they are only available at the gate. Also somewhere outdoors to just rinse off, some mist fans and a few more food carts would be nice. Fair warning, their underground rollercoaster can be scary even for adults, not to mention loud underground & jerky as it is wooden but worth trying just worth a long wait. Overall not a bad choice if you're going to the Dells.
Amanda Burns — Google review
Of all the things to do in the Dells Mt Olympus was by far the most fun for the money. Bout 35 bucks a person for the whole day of both theme park and water park. The roller coasters were a blast of fun, such a thrill ride felt like my heart was ready to jump out of my chest, like we hit the reset button felt great. The water park was a great follow up, the lazy River really booked quick. Getting to the big wave pool was the best, rather than a bunch of waves it does one huge 4 foot wave every couple minutes. Everyone gets close as they can to feel the giant wave pick them up and drive them back 20 feet. So much fun, highly recommend making Mt Olympus a day trip while in the dells.
Tyler Bowers — Google review
Room wasn’t checked on during stay. Had to get our own towels/washcloths. Hair in clean towels was super gross. Beds were super uncomfortable. We woke up every morning with terrible back pain. Toilet ran every time you flushed it. Water at the water park was not warm. Overall first stay was just ok.
Kerri White — Google review
Theme park was great! Waterpark was basically not usable due to the water temperature being torturously cold. And this was in the middle of June. Luckily the kiddos, four to fourteen, loved the rides at the theme park. Parks were nice and clean. Employees were very courteous and helpful.
Capt** Kirk — Google review
Me and my parents stayed here for two nights, the rooms were okay. There really cool but need to be updated and cleaned a bit better. We accidentally bolt locked our door then got locked out and staff was absolutely so sweet about it and not rude at all. My mom met the owner and he was super amazing, also not rude at all. The staff is extremely nice here and the slide lines seem to go by fairly quick. It was quite packed but that’s really any waterpark you go to. Even though nothing outside was open they actually had go karts open, the track was fun and really no wait at all It was quite hard to breathe inside of the waterpark though. All the chlorine makes it super hard to breathe other than that, I’ll definitely be coming back this summer so we can come when everything outdoors is open!
l0v3ly laney — Google review
I supposed to stay tonight. Me and Kids. First night my kids don’t like it the bed a horrible no room service the staff had a bad. Experience Ask them if can have a service room. They said it. No even I didn’t finish two night. Ask manager if can get my money back because kids don’t like it the hotel room beds a horrible.
Hagar Logistics llc — Google review
The kids had a lot of fun. But very long wait lines, and way over crowded. We went on a Saturday. Over all it was a great trip we just didn't get to do much because the lines were so long and we only had about 5 hours and waited an hour to ride go carts. The wave pool was AWESOME, I'd say that was all of our favorite part.
Kylie Johnson — Google review
3.9
(2530)
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3.0
(3237)
1701 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy A, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Noah's Ark Waterpark is the largest water park in Wisconsin Dells and America, with 47 to 51 water slides and over a dozen of other attractions. It is family-friendly and suitable for all age groups, making it a must-visit destination on your vacation to the Wisconsin Dells.
We LOVE Noah's Ark ~ there are so many pools and rides to go on. My kids and I had a blast there! The weather was most gorgeous which was helpful of course. The facility is cashless but you are able to convert cash into a card to use there. Otherwise bring your credit or debit card. The food and drinks are pricey but this is expected at touristy attractions unfortunately. Parking was 20 dollars for general parking and 30 dollars for preferred parking. We used general parking. We got into Noah's Ark with wrist bands from a hotel we stayed at. Plenty of bathrooms and shower and changing areas ~ bathrooms were mainly cleaned aside from wet floors. There are lockers to rent as well as free life jackets to use. Plenty of lifeguards. You can rent tubes for the wave pool ~ costs 5 dollars. We didn't do this though as the wave pool is fun regardless. Friendly staff. No carry ins beside water bottles. They do check bags. You can get a hand stamp and come back in though. Lots of seating and picnic tables. Smoking areas as well. Has gift shops and plenty of food and beverages (adult beverages too). I definitely recommend going here. It's worth the money. Lots of memories to be made!
Melissa Rose — Google review
We spent the whole day here. There are so many attractions to entertain anyone. It was disappointing that some of them were either closed or not operating at their full capacity. After discussing later, I'm sure they were not able to staff everything due to the employment shortage. We rented a Cabana and thought it was worth every penny. It gave us a place, guaranteed, to go back to and rest for a bit. We kept dry towels and sunscreen there.
We will definitely come back, if the opportunity presents itself.
Clint Smith — Google review
Noah's Ark was right off the main strip, easy to access parking lot. Good variety of food, however this place is HUGE! We were only able to get to half the park because the other activities were so far away that we were too tired from doing all the slides and rides by the entrance. You almost need a 2 day pass to get through it all. Highly recommend going on a week day because place looked packed on the weekend. Weekday the lines were a little long but most worth the wait or went fairly quickly. I only gave it 4 stars though because there were lots of bees (I mean lots of bees, everywhere) and there wasn't an easy way to get from one side of the park to the other so it was hard to get to everything on the backside. Overall a great experience and we will be back. Also the Raja ride was awesome but you definitely get airtime! Not for the faint of heart!
Tonya Frank — Google review
It’s a great place with amazing water rides, half the park is closed so that sucked and of course fatties like me have issues with rides and of course I was too big for several of them unfortunately including the raja witch was a huge disappointment considering it was the one ride I wanted to go on while I was there but that’s what I get for enjoyed those cheeseburgers 🍔 😂😂 otherwise it was great, staff and lifeguards were so friendly and helpful. Only thing I will say is it could use a little more for the younger water goers lol but they have the tadpole bay witch my kids loved and they have an amazing wave pool like one of the best I’ve been in!
Phillip Hilleshiem — Google review
Noah’s Ark Waterpark was a fun place to visit. Today was our first time at the park and it was a great experience. The staff was very nice. The park was super clean. It wasn’t overly crowded. We will definitely be back. We would recommend.
The Adventures of Laurie and Robin — Google review
Our experience at Noah's Ark, the largest water park in the US, was absolutely fantastic. The park offered a wide range of thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that kept us entertained throughout the day. The variety of attractions catered to all ages, ensuring that everyone from our family had a memorable time. The cleanliness and well-maintained facilities added to the overall pleasant experience, making Noah's Ark a must-visit destination for water park enthusiasts. During our visit to Noah's Ark, the lines for most of the rides averaged around 20-30 minutes of wait time. This was expected as it was the Fourth of July weekend, and the park was understandably busy. However, we were fortunate to have three days to explore the park and ride the attractions multiple times, which made the wait times more manageable. One tip we discovered was that after 5 pm, the crowds began to disperse, and the lines significantly reduced, allowing us to enjoy the rides with minimal wait times before the park closed at 7 pm.
Gene Ivanov — Google review
Great place for the whole family. Very clean ,staff was professional and fun. Lines were a little long at peak time but there is plenty to do.
Kelly Ambrose — Google review
My family went to the Dells. The main thing we went for was Noahs Ark. We had fun, but we had to make the most of it. We only found 1 location with heated pool. It was the section for small kids. The water was so cold it made it hard to ride anything. One recommendation is to bring empty water bottles. They have water fountains you can fill them. We bought 2 waters for almost 8 bucks.
K D — Google review
We loved all the waterslides. My kids had a blast. Some things weren't open or were short staffed, making the lines longer than they needed to be, and we wished it were open a couple hours later, but overall it was a great experience.
Kari Layland — Google review
We had a blast. Some rides have strict rules like the scorpion. My daughter couldn't take her swim shorts off so they refused to let her ride. I found a manager and she said that was a mistake. She walked her right up to the top and talked with the lifeguard about how her shorts were her bottoms and not an issue. There were no grommets and they were not loose or cotton shorts. It was a simple mistake and they made it right. I commend them for listening and resolving an error promptly. We had a wonderful time!
Meagan Haupt — Google review
Positive first-class water park that was fun for the whole family. Really enjoyed that several rides had no minimum height requirements so our family of five could go on raft rides. Lines were fast with little wait times and the wave pull was a blast. Ended the day in the lazy river, time went by too fast.
Kenneth Knudson — Google review
Visiting America's largest waterpark was an absolute thrill! From the moment I stepped in, the excitement was non-stop. With a vast array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, there was never a dull moment.
What impressed me the most was the park's commitment to safety and cleanliness. Lifeguards were attentive, and the facilities were well-maintained, ensuring a worry-free day of fun.
For families, it's a paradise of aquatic adventures, and for thrill-seekers, there were adrenaline-pumping rides that didn't disappoint. The variety of activities and attractions catered to all ages and preferences.
It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a splashy, entertaining day out. Whether you're young or young at heart, this waterpark guarantees an unforgettable, watery adventure!
Caglar Ozdemir — Google review
We went when we were kids, on family vacation years ago. We had a blast taking our kids. It brought back great memories and my sister and my kids all had a blast. Kids are ages 16 to 7. Highly recommend if you are at the dells.
Samantha Craft — Google review
So much fun even though the weather changed we made the best of it. Consider adding weight requirements to brochure my kids were tall enough for everything but didn't weigh enough and if I hadn't been paying attention we would have wasted an hour in line just to get turned around at the top as some people found out as well. Also parking is either $30 or $20 depending on which lot you want to be in.
Ashli Kacalek — Google review
We have come here many times over the years and love it!! We stayed at a hotel that gave us free passes. We were able to walk to the water park so we saved on parking fees as well. It's $20 and $30 for parking. Lockers are $15 ( I think) Cabanas are available for rentals as well.
Sarah Sievers — Google review
4.4
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4.0
(2919)
1410 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, USA
Devil's Lake State Park is a vast recreational area that features a 360-acre lake, sandy beaches, campgrounds, and food stands. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes around the lake on rocky paths or climb up for breathtaking views of the stunning blue-green waters. The park is also pet-friendly but requires dogs to be leashed at all times. In addition to outdoor activities, visitors can challenge their minds with riddle-solving in escape rooms located nearby.
A beautiful hike around the lake. One can hike low and follow the path through the rocks or you can climb up. We climbed up both sides and it was worth it. Fantastic views, gorgeous blue green water. Turkey vultures soaring overhead with a slight breeze. Had a picnic on a rock ledge over looking the lake. Dog friendly but you need to keep them on a leash
Marilyn Kolander — Google review
I was delighted to find a last minute tent site, actually there were multiple options on the day off to reserve. I got a late recommendation to explore this park while on a road trip and I fell in love. As a local said on the trails “best place in WI” and from what I was able to experience on my travels, I agree! What a gorgeous park. The campground was quiet and well maintained. Bathrooms were clean. Lake water was warm (mid August). I will be recommending this to anyone I know heading to WI. I am grateful to have been able to explore the trails and camp here.
Kai Cimmino — Google review
My wife and I stopped in during our honeymoon for a hike. We also stopped in the gift shop to pick up a map and stickers. The employees were very friendly, the bathrooms were clean, and the hike was just absolutely gorgeous.
It was pretty busy, but during the time we were there, everyone was respectful and in good spirits.
Rebecca Lynn Stewart — Google review
Devil's Lake is the most popular State Park in Wisconsin for good reasons.
Want to circumnavigate a beautiful lake, you've got it. Climbing rocks on the West side, walk a railroad track on the East side, and the North and South side have beaches.
Want to swim? Two beaches, clear water, and motored boats allowed.
Hike on a National Scenic Trail? Part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passes through the Park. And the Ice Age Trail has no usage fee.
And make sure to set aside time to make use of the rest of the Park's other activities.
A great park in a great state!
Karl Wise — Google review
Came here early Saturday morning and we found a great spot under a tree that had great shade. We BBQ and then went for a dip in the lake. The water was super clear that you could see small fish. We made the way to the trail to go up and see the balanced rock. We only made it half way because it is a difficult trail to do with smaller children. Next time I’ll make the trek with just my husband and I because the views are amazing!
Steph Gore — Google review
Great place to recreate! Highly recommend showing up early. The Balanced Rock trail is a fantastic hike for the adventurous. Wear something with good traction, the rock/boulder terrain is slippery at times when its completely dry. Elevation gain is roughly 400-500ft over half mile. Take the time to stop and enjoy the views!
Gary Dornbush — Google review
Devils lake is so beautiful! The trails are amazing! Some are easy some are really difficult the trail maps are marked as to which ones more challenging. The ones up the bluff will make you sweat quite a bit but the view is so worth it! Each trail has a something unique and special to be found along it. It’s so exciting! The photos you can take and the time you can spend at this park is extensive! It would take a whole weekend to experience it all. So if you’re going up for a day pick and choose what you most want to do, because time goes by quick when you’re handling this much fun! By the lake there’s kayak rental, canoe rental, paddle boat rental, swimming, a beautiful gift shop, ice cream, snacks, a bath house. Plus you can’t forget about the fact that they have a campground. That’s the best way to go if you’re gonna go all out is to come here and camp for a whole weekend or longer! I can’t wait to go back!
Nikki Weber — Google review
Very geologically unique state park! We greatly enjoyed hiking up the rock pile hill and walking around the beautiful blue lake. Quite busy on a summer Sunday, but park officials have a good system. Follow the signs for directions. So many things to enjoy here. Neat to see so many people enjoying all of them.
K UU — Google review
Beautiful park! I would recommend to be there no later that 9:00-10:00am since it gets packed! At least during holidays. It has a north and a south area for parking. I liked more the north area since we were with our dogs, and I found the south more hiking with heights!
Geraldine Campos — Google review
It is possible to hike around the lake in a single day. It took us about 4 hours at a leisurely pace. Highly recommend starting from the south park area and taking the Grotto's Trail to the East Bluff Trail, walk across the North Shore Beach and take the Tumbled Rocks Trail and then back to the south park area. It was well worth the trip from the Chicago suburbs! Also, I recommend the Tumbled Rock Brewery and Kitchen afterwards. It's just north of the north park entrance.
Todd Lohenry — Google review
Such a fun place to go! The beach is very nice, sandy, not a lot of rocks on the beach or in the water close to the shore. They have plenty of activities for a family to do, paddle boats, other rentals. Water is friendly warm and you can go out a good distance in the lake before you are fairly deep. Would definitely recommend if you want a lake experience!
Robert Brown II — Google review
My timing for this trip could not have been more perfect. The fall colors were in all their splendor. This is a short drive from Madison and has beautiful views, walking paths and yes a dog park as well. Worth the effort and highly recommend.
Chris Domenico — Google review
Wisconsin provides a lot of hidden gems that many outsiders wouldn't know of & Devil's Lake State Park is one of them. Devil's Lake is a perfect spot to spend your summer day. You have the options to relax by the water or hike up the mountain that overviews the lake. The trails themselves are well kept & the hike isn't too difficult even for those who are casual hikers. Once you get to the top, there are beautiful panoramic views of the lake in each direction. Devil's Lake is in a remote area so parking & traffic are challenges when visiting so I recommend arriving earlier rather than later. There is a large picnic area to dine which is well kept for the most part. If you're looking for a great way to spend at a park, I highly recommend considering Devil's Lake State Park!
Stephen Bazzano — Google review
Devil's Lake is a pretty amazing state park to have in the back yard of Madison. That being said I don't think I'd ever want to go there in the middle of peak season or on a weekend. Early April on a Monday was an amazing time to go. The trails were not too crowded and my wife and I easily managed to do a loop around the lake. The views were gorgeous and most of the trails were rather pleasant. That being said the southeast has some vertical rock step trails that are a bit more technical and would make me rather nervous with our small children and potentially our pre-teens (depending on their awareness-levels that day). However, as an adult I really enjoyed it, but am glad my wife and I went when we did, as we got to see everything without having to manage crowded trails. Definitely worth a visit, this gem of a park will not disappoint and offers some great hiking.
Matthew Kuikman — Google review
A beautiful park, which offers a variety of activities for all ages.
We hiked around the east trail, starting uphills from the east bluffs wood trail. The walk was really pleasant, on a comfortable path. We then passed through the devils hole and balanced rock and went down on the east bluffs trail, which was more challenging, but definitely worth the effort. The views from the mountain peaks were stunning, displaying a wild scenery of the huge rocks, woods and shiny lake. It is highly recommended!
G BN — Google review
My happy place.... I have been here an average of twice a year every year for over ten years. The lake is beautiful, the hiking is amazing and unique, the campsites are great if you know which to get.
The place is dog friendly but only kind of. There is only one beach that allows dogs and that beach is all rocks so make sure you have some water shoes.
Unfortunately over the years I've noticed more and more people leaving garbage everywhere... what is with this. There are garbage cans and dumpsters... use them! Oh and clean up after your dogs! I like laying on the grass!!
eddie gramma — Google review
It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature alone or with family, friends & pets. The trails offer breathtaking views. You can bring your kayak, paddleboard, canoe, inflatable boat or other floatation devise and enjoy the crystal clear lake. There are plenty of picnic tables and charcoal grills throughout the picnic area. Get there early to secure a spot and parking because this a popular place and it fills up quickly. It's just a beautiful place.
NaturEli — Google review
The scenery of the park is very beautiful. If you go to the park in the morning, it will be better to go up the mountain from the east, because the sun rises from the east, and it will be better to take pictures like this. There are many parking lots in the park, and parking is very convenient, but the downside is that the parking lot is charged, but I didn't see an obvious notice of the fee, and there is no self-service payment machine in the parking lot. When I came down from the mountain, I found a payment slip posted on my car, but the payment cannot be settled immediately, and I need to go to a specific place to pay the fee. This is a very troublesome thing. It is hoped that the managers of the park can improve the charging problem, and it is best to install self-service payment machines in the parking lot.
陈中贤 — Google review
Love hiking here! Many steps to view Balanced Rock and Devils Doorway from the South beach! You can hike from the North beach to view these but it will take longer! Recommend taking East Bluff trail there and East Bluff Woods trail back from the North beach! Get there early if you don't like crowds! 8am!
Lisa Zurbey — Google review
10 out of 10! Stopped here during a road trip with my son in 2022. Place was absolutely gorgeous! However, my son and I were not prepared for the climb ahead of us and worse...the climb down! Ok, not trying to spook anyone here! It's not a sheer cliff we were climbing. The trails are very easy to follow and clearly marked. However, we wanted to see the Balancing Rock and Devil's Doorway. Well, that trail is all up hill...literally! Not only is it all uphill but incorporates many, many stairs! The good news is, once you make it to the top, the trail levels out into a nice dirt road. Then, you walk that for a ways and you've made it! Oops, not quite! Now, you must descend the mountain down to the Balancing Rock. My knees were shot by this point but I was determined to make it there. We did and the view was incredible! We took our pictures and on to the Devil's Doorway. Another good distance away and unfortunately, we were running out of time on our schedule and had to turn back. Only way back is the way we came or the treacherous decent down the side of the mountain on make shift stairs created out of the rock shelf itself. The rock shelf was the quickest way down. It took about 35 minutes to the bottom, legs almost gave out dozens of times and we hustled the mile long walk back to the car! I'll say this, its a must for visiting but if you aren't an avid hiker or climber, you WILL be exhausted taking on this mountain! Be sure to pack a jug of water cause you will need it! However, there are other trails that go around the lake that are very easy to venture. A beautiful beach to swim or catch some rays. All kinds of picnic areas. Both public or private. A great big pavilion, if you prefer tables and the indoors. Plenty of bathroom access all over the park and plenty of parking. Keep in mind, this is a state park. So prices are higher if you're out of state. I picked up a WI park pass for the year. So we only had to pay to park. Come to Devil's Lake, its definitely worth it!
D-Rock T — Google review
Easily my top favorite of Wisconsin State Parks. Love the length of trails and the elevation. Beautiful place with great views. We travel almost 3 hours here just for day trips. With stops to take in the view and getting ice cream at the North Shore in the summer, it takes us about 3-4 hours to complete a loop on various trails.
Haley B — Google review
First time visiting with family! Trails and views were amazing, especially now that it's starting to warm up. Parked in the south lot, took the route up to devils doorway and balanced rock, then headed through the east bluff trail and tumbled rocks (got too tired for the west bluffs). Wish they had signs showing which bathrooms are open and more accessible water in the off-season.
Eva Muller — Google review
Amazing hike! Fall is the perfect time to visit to see the vibrant colors of the turning leafs. We got really lucky with that, considering we visited second half of October.
The climb was a bit steep, but with a few rest breaks I made it up. Took me about 25-30 minutes.
The view was really beautiful, the skies were gray and the lighting for photos was just right.
The lake itself looked too manicured, that is too say, the edges drawn in a smooth line, which took away a bit from experiencing nature, but still a pleasure to look at.
Lots of big rocks at the top, where you could sit and snack, while looking down on the water.
There were many people when we were climbing up at about 11:30 am, and it got even busier when we were making our way back.
Lots of dogs and all seemed very friendly.
Masha Kalmanovich — Google review
There are so many amazing hiking trails! Definitely the place to go for aesthetic camping pictures. The restroom are fairly nice and the beach is great.
Hannah Shore — Google review
Spent the day at Devil's Lake with my boyfriend and our family yesterday, and it was a wonderful trip. We hiked to the top, and the view was absolutely breathtaking!
The park was very clean and well maintained. The restrooms were also clean. We used the picnic area by the south beach to eat and swim. The water was clean and cool but there were a lot of rocks so you have to be careful when getting in the water because it's a bit rough on your feet. Swim shoes recommended.
The House on the Rock is a one-of-a-kind architectural gem that features a sprawling, Japanese-inspired home built into a massive 60-foot rock formation. Visitors will be amazed by the vast collection of unique exhibits and displays, including impressive robotics and other fascinating curiosities. The museum offers something for everyone, with its full-scale replicas and quirky items sure to keep visitors entertained for hours.
This is truly a once and a life time experience. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It’s weird, yes, but it’s unique and interesting. It’s a lot of walking, but I made it through with not many problems. As someone who has a hard time walking due to health problems it wasn’t too bad until the end. I was very tired as I went through the last few rooms but it was so worth it. My favorite exhibits were the heritage of the sea, the carousel, the tribute to nostalgia, and the music of yesterday. We also met some cool and nice people during our time there :) If you are staying in the area overnight I recommend the House on the Rock Resort. It’s beautiful, nice rooms, and a cute little gift shop. We stayed 2 nights and visited some cool shops and enjoyed the nature and scenery. This was an amazing experience.
Mikayla Cogley — Google review
This is such a unique place to visit, both the home and the other buildings. The original house is full of interesting architecture and a mix of interior design elements I haven't seen combined like this anywhere else.
The other sections host a variety of collections, giant automated musical performance displays, whimsical scenery, and a lot of near-magical surprises. Like my personal favorite since I was little, the indoor carousel.
If you want to see all three sections arrive at least 3 hours before closing time.
Elizabeth Fehring — Google review
Some are saying it's the Versailles palace of Wisconsin. Super fun way to spend an after. A good amount of walking, but well worth it. So many rooms and cool collections. You could easily go back 10+ times and notice something new each time. A great hidden gem is Wisconsin. If people come to visit and want to do something unique, I would highly recommend it to anyone.
Drew K — Google review
This was one of the coolest experiences of my life. I went in with expectations and they were blown away within the first hour. I went on a weekend and while it was busy I definitely didn't feel like I was waiting/navigating around people. Definitely not a friendly place for wheel-bound persons as some areas are straight up inaccessible without using the stairs. I was offered coins in the beginning but I declined because the lady just described them as 'music boxes' when in reality some of the operated entire automaton rooms so that was disappointing, although it appears that multiple did not work anyways. The place is well kept and while some areas have an odor I feel like the overall state of the place fits the atmosphere. It feels antique but lived in and loved. I will definitely come back many more time. The gift shop hardly has anything that relates to the location, and what they do have isn't very attractive/well made.
Faux — Google review
When walking into this home turned attraction, you are greeted by a man with devil horns. This is by no means what to expect in your experience here. The house was absolutely amazing, how well it all flowed and yet still had a lot of craziness from a creative mind. I could only imagine what it would have been like back in it's early years to actually be a party guest here and see how all of the spaces and rooms were actually used.
Very fun experience, will most likely return or at least recommend it for something to do.
Alec Cepak — Google review
Amazing! Be prepared for at least 3 hours, but you could stay for years and not take in everything. Arrive early for beast opportunity for photos.
We bought a Alex Jordan’s book, well worth a read and opportunity to learn about the man behind the art.
Liam McLauchlan — Google review
I have visited the House on the Rock probably 6 or 7 times over the last 40 years. Every time I go it is even more spectacular. There is so much to see and everything is so very interesting. It is great for both kids and adults. If you are looking for a memorable family outing, this is the place to go.
Olen Pepple — Google review
This was my second trip to The House on The Rock. I consider it a must-see attraction and I'm not one for tourist attractions. No words or photos can explain the magnitude of the impact this place will have. I have been telling people about it for years after having seen it the first time and my partner and I have discussed it for hours on end since visiting this last time. Couple of got tips: she's dark, musty and dusty so don't head out there expecting pristine museum vibes. This is not kid- friendly due to it being a HUGE place that takes at minimum 3 hours to get through- the kids we saw were bored and running around like crazy for entertainment. Definitely plan to buy $3-5 worth of tokens- the musical contraptions are worth the spend.
Carrie B — Google review
Had a great time here. Staff were excellent by making you feel at home. Well directed with directions. The place was very clean and smelled fresh with air fresheners. Hadn't been here since I was 12yrs old now I'm well in my late 50's, but by far the carousel is still my favorite. The room with the long view was cool as well. I also enjoyed all the playing instruments and the mechanics behind them, super cool. If you haven't been here it is definitely a must see! Lots of history as well. You may even see a toy you had as a child or recognize during your era.
kookie s — Google review
A must see. So many amazing robitcs. Huge displays. A full house within a rock. This place is amazing best kept secret. Museum of unique items and displays. Could spend hours in this place. Small cafeteria in the middle with great pizza.
David George — Google review
Great place to check out with lots of unique items and things all collected and put in one location for everyone to see. Highlights of the trip would probably include the whale, the carousel, the infinity room,(provided you don't mind heights) the Japanese garden, as well as other rooms with many treasures to be seen, and it is even worth your while to check out the bathrooms on your way though as some have hidden treasures as well that are easily missed. Only bad thing is a very large museum and requires a lot of walking, so plan on almost a full day on your feet if you want to see it all!
David Vande Vyver — Google review
The house on the rock is still a cool interesting place to visit. I used to go as a kid and have fond memories.
So many cool automated instruments! This is fun to watch.. you can't help but wonder how they did it. My kids had fun sitting on all the fuzzy couches and benches.
The gallery with the whale and giant octopus is pretty fantastic. We enjoyed the gardens. they aren't super large which the kids appreciated.
All in all a pretty good time. We bought the ultimate pass online and spent between 4 and 5 hours there. The place is full of curiosities and collections so get ready to see thousands of objects!
There is a place to eat in the middle. My kids liked the hot dogs but would not eat the pizza. It's food but not the best. Next thing I will try to have a big meal first.
Two critiques:
Take this for what it is but some of the items seem like they do not get the maintenance they require or have collected so much dust. A few times we used tokens and things were partially our completely broken.
There are a number of culturally insensitive items.. and pretty appropriative displays. I was finding myself explaining these things to my kids a lot.. even the use of whale bones and ivory. I think we are at a point in history where this deserves recognition. But I do appreciate talking about those things with my little people.
Sarah L — Google review
One of the coolest experiences ever! We spent 4 1/2 hours walking through the whole thing, because there was so much to look at. I was in awe with all of the collections and art pieces, and plan on going back to see things I missed! It was fascinating talking to the workers to further the learning of the history of the buildings. Everyone was very kind and the scenery was fabulous.
Calli — Google review
Pretty cool place. Make sure you leave enough time. Lots of walking: ramps, stairs, narrow passageways. What a fascinating collection. Carousel is not rideable, just so your kids aren't disappointed like mine were!
Carolyn Cianfarani — Google review
Amazing collection of eccentric things from doll houses to guns to a car covered in tile. There are musical exhibits that play all on their own and the 2 story carousel was fantastic. Some of the rooms are 3 stories high with walls of collections all neatly housed and displayed. The amount of time and effort is amazing. The doll houses all have little lights in them so you can see everything inside. The sheer size of some of the displays is just incredible. It took about 3 hours to walk through the entire place. Once you’ve completed the walk through you can spend some time in the Japanese garden too.
Melanie Hausen — Google review
This place is the best place to go visit in the whole United States if you want to see some interesting and wild collections.
I went I was a teenager about 30 years ago and couldn't wait to go back as an adult! I felt like a kid again and was excited about the instruments that play on their own.
For about $35.00 to see this huge collection is well worth the price.
I look at this attraction like Willy Wonka's chocolate factory 🏭.
You don't be disappointed!
peter gieblewicz — Google review
Always one of my favorites. Definitely a must see. Can take 2 hours or longer to walk through depending on your pace. Little ice cream and pizza parlor about half way through. First section of the original home is not wheelchair accessible, other 2 sections are. A lot of ramps and some can be steep.
Duranda Rose — Google review
This place is so amazing! I went when I was a kid and finally got to bring my kids. It's a lit of walking but you can have food and drinks on the premises. And there are lots of benches and rest stops. It is a must see place!
Jacky Day — Google review
I don’t know where to start…fortunately you will because there’s plenty of signage! Amazing place, a must see when in the area. By far the most interesting attraction in Wisconsin! Just be sure to give yourself at least 6 hours to see and enjoy. There are a few cafe areas, one was open, which is nice since we were 3 hours in and only halfway through. Definitely take your time, soak it all in!
Chris Fellure — Google review
If you ever have a chance to visit, I highly recommend it. My mind is seriously blown by the eclectic collections that are housed in this place.
Plan to spend the entire day because there’s so much to see!!
Wear comfy shoes as you’ll do lots of walking!! It gets pretty warm inside and it’s a little dark.
Pictures don’t do it justice but you can find plenty online. Be sure and peek inside the bathrooms - they have interesting stuff too! And get several tokens to use throughout.
If you enjoy oddities and excess, this is a place you need to go!
Lynn Ringis — Google review
The House on the Rock is a "must see" for any eclectic/vintage collector at heart! The complete tour included the whole property that took at least 3.5 hours which I highly recommend! Make sure you get tokens to play the music anamatronics throughout the property!
April Warner — Google review
This is truly an amazing and weird place! I am glad we went as an outing with my Dad who had never been although he has lived in WI for over 50 years. There are things to know before going: it is very cold (and I am rarely cold) so bring a sweater or jacket. Also it is a lot of walking, ramps and steps. My father had a hard time of it (being 80+) and we missed a lot of the house trying to find the fastest way out. Even as they point you to the fastest way out you have to do a lot of walking on ramps that wind around (Ada compliance maybe) so it still takes another 15
Min of walking to exit. Knee replacements, hip replacements, or just weak cardio vascular systems will make this a less fun experience for some. It was for me as I was worried about my Dad. Also the only hot beverage they serve in the cafe is really bad hot chocolate. No coffee or cider or tea. I wanted to give this 5 stars but I can’t for the reasons above. Maybe you could do the house in two separate days. There is certainly enough to see!
Roxanne Maier — Google review
We have been here before but this was our first time coming when it has been decorated for Christmas. Definitely worth the visit. A bit bummed sections are closed during the Christmas experience, but it's not like they don't tell you that in advance. Really fun how much the place is changed with so many Christmas decorations everywhere!
Josh Caine — Google review
2 words...HOLY COW! This place is unbelievable and mind boggling! A stop on a road trip my son and I took in 2022. There aren't enough words to explain this place! It IS a must see to believe! There is an unbelievable amount of things to see here that it is likely you won't see everything! They were not kidding on the website when they said the tour could take up to 4 hours! We made it in about 3 hours because we were absolutely exhausted from visiting Devil's Lake State Park just a few hours earlier! This place is magnificent and so very worth every penny to tour it! The endless sights are overwhelming to a point and you kinda leave the place stunned! Don't get me wrong, this IS good! You wanna leave with this buzz of excitement thinking, "what did I just do" or "what did I just see?" The whole experience is just that...an experience! It is definitely one you should! This place is a treasure to the man who helped create it, Alex Jordan! There are plenty of pics online so I'm only going to show a few but seeing is believing! You got to see this place! A great family outing!
D-Rock T — Google review
Wow! What a unique crazy fun place! You could spend all day checking out the artifacts and enjoying the beautiful area. There's something in the house for everyone. Some rooms are creepy, some are calming and some are funny. Be prepared for lots of walking but there are ample places to sit and rest.
All the staff is super friendly and helpful!
Brianna Harte — Google review
We visited this place for our daughters 12 birthday. I was very worried that my kids would think this place was boring...boy was I wrong. This is one of the few places I have ever visited where there is so much to see and something for everyone.
We spent about 4 hours in the location (I take a lot of photos and videos). This gave us about the right time to take everything in.
The staff was so amazing. They explained the history, the items, and made sure we knew where we were going the whole time.
The House on the Rock feels like you are really inside the imagination of the builder and you leave with so many things to talk about.
The little food area was decent for a quick bite to keep us going with the basics of pizza, hot dogs, and nachos. With the limited time in the attraction the speed of the food was helpful.
I would highly recommend putting this on your bucket list.
Shane Lundberg — Google review
This is worth a visit if you’re in the area or you just want to have a day trip. It’s about $36 if you want to do the ultimate experience in the regular season. I went during the regular season. There are 3 sections plus the Japanese garden. They also have a place inside if you want to grab food. It’s a huge collection of different items. You’ll see a giant sea creature, a carousel with 20,000 lights and 269 animals, and an infinity room. Plan to spend 3.5-4 hrs here if you want to look at everything. It was busy not crowded.
Nicholas P — Google review
This place exceeded all my expectations .
It is marvelous and impressive in its gigantic size .The museum is incomparably superb and unique. I advise everyone to visit it if possible and open new horizons of their versatile vision.
The ticket costs 38$
The time for inspection is not less than 4 hours.
In a relaxed state 5-6 hours.
This is an unforgettable emotion and the feeling that you are in a movie of fiction.
IVANNA ANDREICHYNA — Google review
This was my first visit to The House on The Rock. We were there for the Christmas Experience. This place is very interesting. You never know what you'll see. It's also pretty creepy at times, so be forewarned. Additionally, if you're not a fan of old things and buildings, this is not the place for you. It's like a creepy old grandma house times 1000. It smells old, too. It's worth visiting at least once, because you'll likely never see anything like it again
Nick Chill — Google review
My friend and I went for the first time. It was amazing. There's a lot so be prepared to spend a few hours if you want to see everything. There's a cafeteria at the half way point which is helpful
1-hour guided tours are offered of this cave with stalactites & stalagmites, plus a souvenir shop.
An exceptional cave, displaying the earthly wonder world and teaching us the geological and evolution history.
It’s thrilling to walk in a relatively large cave. Display boards and the stationed staff provide more educational insights !
Don’t forget to see the colorful display of the “time machine and transformation of various minerals” while in the dark.
An educational exhibit, no the geological history, for the entire family.
Good approach roads and plenty of car parking at the facility.
T RS — Google review
It was a beautiful setting. A few different hiking trails with beautiful scenery as well. They make it fun with little scavenger hunts you can do and all of it is self-paced. You may have to get creative in entertaining yourself if you're trying to stay there for more than an hour to hour and a half as there is not much to do other than the cave and the gift shop. Still worth the trip because the cave was beautiful! I love that they had workers stationed throughout the cave and giving the guests little tidbits of information. Especially the freedom to walk past if you were not interested or to stay and get more insight.
Hannah Jost — Google review
This really is a fun inexpensive place to visit. It was my first time here. So much to learn and do. Staff is really knowledgeable and friendly. Facility was clean and well kept. The cave itself is pretty incredible and the story on how it was discovered. A definite must see in Wisconsin. Ticket prices are very reasonable and the all year pass is $6.99 for unlimited visits!!! Highly recommend!
Court Hutsen — Google review
This was undoubtedly the best cave I’ve visited in recent years! I was especially impressed with the amount of stalagmites, stalactites, and underground ponds of water that were prevalent throughout the cave. Also, occasionally keep an eye out for a couple fossils embedded on the roof of the cave!
N Duncan — Google review
Excellent experience, very fun and instructive. You will learn or recall your knowledge about different kinds of rocks, minerals, and more. My favorite part... experiencing almost absolute darkness and then the fluorescent minerals. Don't forget to bring or rent an UV flashing.... for sure you will be one of the coolest in the excursion and everyone will try to stay close to you.... 70 feet under ground temperature is very stable.... bring a light jacket, or you will be sweating.... If you have a young kid (my son is 2)... there are tons of stairs and wet, so it will be slippery. The entire tour is around 30 minutes.
Carmen Morales Rico — Google review
Excellent experience, very fun and instructive. You will learn or recall your knowledge about different kinds of rocks, minerals, and more. My favorite part... experiencing almost absolute darkness and then the fluorescent minerals. Don't forget to bring or rent an UV flashing.... for sure you will be one of the coolest in the excursion and everyone will try to stay close to you.... 70 feet under ground temperature is very stable.... bring a light jacket, or you will be sweating.... If you have a young kid (my son is 2)... there are tons of stairs and wet, so it will be slippery. The entire tour is around 30 minutes.
carmen Morales — Google review
My first cave, was a very pretty cave. I highly recommend getting a black light and a bag, worth it in my opinion. Not very claustrophobic place, there was only one spot we needed to turn sideways to get through but most of it is very open and the whole thing has a walkway. Staff was very friendly. Our guide was knowledgeable.
Brittany Traeger — Google review
Went on double date here on a Saturday at 3. It was a really cool experience and wasn't packed. The guides along the tour were very knowledgeable and clearly enjoyed their work! Great place to check out as an adult or especially with the kids!
Alexandra Ferguson — Google review
Such a great place to visit. Of you haven't been there before, I would recommend it! There are a lot of fun things to do for the kids as well. Just make sure to dress accordingly unless you like cooler temperatures!
Thomas H — Google review
This is the teeny-tiny version of Carlsbad Caverns. If you've never, ever seen a cave, then go here. The guide we had was informative, but couldn't answer all my questions, one of which was do you go permanently blind if you come out of a cave after getting cave-blindness. Which you supposedly get after being in a pitch-black cave for an extended period of time. Does that last forever? He didn't know, but I hope he finds out so the next person who asks will get an answer. The tour is pretty short, less than an hour. You do get interrupted by other groups going past, and you do hear other guides talking when you're trying to listen to your guide, but again, this is a teeny-tiny version of a huge cave, so I guess it's to be expected. The grounds are beautiful, the hillside garden is pretty, and the beer garden is very pleasant. If you have seen a huge cave, skip this. If you have kids under 15 that you need to entertain, go here.
Marilyn Besasie — Google review
We were the only ones on the tour, probably because it was in the 20s today and the Monday after Thanksgiving. Plan your visit on a day when it's not busy. That's the best! So cool! And the stories and history are really interesting. Definitely worth the visit!
Suzy Keidel — Google review
We went on a day when lots of families were there on spring break, but the staged entry times kept it from getting crowded in the cave. The new visitor center was nice, although it seems as though they have yet to move most of their operations there.
I have been in some spectacular caves, so this was not as impressive as I have seen, but it was very well lit and developed. It was both intimate and spacious.
Tom Wanamaker — Google review
This was a fun experience that is worth a day trip for! We went on a cold and rainy day, which prevented us from having a picnic and hiking around the park like we originally planned, but the cave was tons of fun and still made the trip worth it. We spent about an hour in the cave on the self guided tour.
Taylor Beck — Google review
This place is super cool. Literally! There's so much to do one could plan a day trip. Parents can sit in the beer garden as the kids go sift rocks or play in the gardens. The bathrooms were nice and clean and the line to get tickets wasn't very long at all. Highly recommend! It's a beautiful experience.
Caasi Heckman — Google review
Well-managed, clean, and educational. The guides are polite and knowledgeable and the bathrooms easily accessible.
The tours are spaced apart and self-paced. The cave is quite cool (we visited in summer) and a sweatshirt was pleasant. The cave is well-lit and the paved path is even and easy to traverse.
There are some narrow points and places where taller folks might need to tilt their heads down. I had a few brushes with anxiety, and I would not bring anyone with more than mild claustrophobia down. There are some large areas at the beginning of the tour that should be fine for those who don't love enclosed spaces, and it is very easy to turn back if you start feeling overwhelmed.
Wear shoes you're comfortable traversing wet concrete in. The cave gets pretty wet as you go deeper.
If underground isn't for you, there are some nice above ground trails for easy walks and some lovely gardens planted around the buildings. Botany nerds will rejoice in the variety and the rock-inclined will have a variety of geode displays and the standard rock shop to poke through.
Elizabeth Phillippi — Google review
First ever experience visting a cave and this cave didn't disappoint. We visited as a family with young kids and everyone loved it. The staff members are present at various points inside the cave to answer any questions or share cool facts. All staff was very friendly and the gift shop is also great. Parking was not a problem at all.
Maninder Kumar — Google review
Fun and educational half day experience right here in Wisconsin! Go down 70 feet and back in time 100 million years to see some earth level history up close and personal. Please be aware there are a few tight spots and a lot of stairs as you navigate the cave's twists and turns. Fantastic and affordable gift shop with all kinds of cool geological stuff too.
Nate London — Google review
Very cool place to take the whole family! They have black lights available and you can see some areas in the cave glowing. The scenery is just beautiful. There's a cute gift shop and relaxing beer garden. We bought one of the treasure buckets and you are able to sift through the sand to find your own treasures. My kids are 4 and 5 and they had so much fun exploring the cave and then finding goodies afterward.
Tatiana Lang — Google review
I took my 5 year old nephew here today and we had SO MUCH FUN. Our tour guide, Chris, was fantastic. He was super knowledgeable, friendly and great with the kiddos. Renting the UV Flashlight was the best investment, my nephew loved that.
My nephew loved the little “mining station” they have out front. I got him a $15 bag of sand with gems and he had a blast sifting through it to get all of the gems. He could have done that all day.
Mandi Clemmons — Google review
Last time I visited the cave was in the sixties. It's changed since. It's an easy self guided tour or with a tour. Excellent gift shop too. I'm knocking one star due that the entry fee is a tad steep for a roughly 45 minute tour of the cave, that really not that huge compared to other caves I've visited. But for a Wisconsin cave, it's worth the visit.
Jim Groat — Google review
This is one of the smaller caves I’ve been in. Tour is short but I did enjoy seeing everything. This is a short drive if you want to get away from Wisconsin Dells for a bit. I took off a star because $22 is kind of pricey for such a short experience. I’m sure people know this but it’s actually warmer in the caves than it is outside especially when it’s winter. They have a small souvenir shop if you want to pick up something. Tour guide was informative and knowledgeable.
Nicholas P — Google review
I love these caves. Great tour and excellent guides that answer questions and have fun. The new visitor center is looking great. The beer garden and surrounding activities are fun. The Christmas lights are on display and look cool. When you take the tour rent the the blacklight it adds to the fun of the tour.
Paul Sahy — Google review
Very amazing . Bought a large dirt bucket for my son to pan for gems . 50 dollars but hey my son loves looking for this stuff he had fun . Bucket is probably your best buy if you have several kids. They have smaller bags too.
David McClernon — Google review
Fantastic cave tour. Informative and friendly guide (Abe) on our tour. We had a great time with the family going through here. Would definitely recommend, well worth the price of admission in my opinion! Thank you for the excellent tour Abe!
Josh Caine — Google review
When we got there we were moved to a different time 30 minutes away because of our large group.
It was a very fun experience and I enjoyed looking at all of the different types of stones and different other materials, I got a lot of different photos without being rushed.
Got a container of rocks, strawberry soda, a large stuffed bat, a star crystal, and a medium bat I got earlier before we went in and the guy at the cashier was really nice. He taped up the container of rocks for us and he told us about people who said the strawberry soda tasted like strawberriy or cherry pie. We named the medium bat Larry after the cashier we had.
Roxy Raspberry — Google review
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2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, USA
The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located on Madison's scenic waterfront and features a wide variety of themed gardens with plants from all over the world. Highlights include the glass-enclosed Bolz Conservatory and an elaborate Thai pavilion called a sala which is the only one of its kind in the continental United States.
Beautiful Gardens and their Conservatory is also really nice! Loved seeing tropical plants, water ponds and quails! The Gardens are free which is very nice, they do accept donations. The Conservatory is not free, but the ticket entrance is not expensive at all. Parking is also free which is nice. Will definitely be back once everything has bloomed.
Jen Romero-Stentella — Google review
This is a great botanical garden - my family has had a membership for years. We love walking around the outside areas when it's warm, and the indoor conservatory it's great in the winter.
Additionally, there are a few times a year when we always stop by:
- in the spring/summer they have a butterfly event where they raise butterflies and release them into the conservatory. You can walk around the area full of butterflies, if you're lucky one may land on you!
- in December they have their holiday express event, where they put together displays and incorporate model trains from enthusiasts in the area. It's always a ton of fun, and they generally have a search and find page for the kids.
This year's holiday express was carnival themed, which was a ton of fun.
John K — Google review
Was beautiful. The walk through of the orchids took about 1 hour. Was hot and humid inside because that's the natural habitat for the orchids, so dress in layers that you can remove.
The flowers were awesome! There was also some orange trees, trees, berry trees, cocoa trees and other little surprises. We'll worth the price of admission!
Check out the many photos!
Rusty Shelby — Google review
This botanical gardens is the best!! On Saturday mornings from 10am-12pm the garden is FREE! When you enter the dome, be prepared for your jaw to drop! It is amazing! Tropical trees yielding fruit, birds flying around, quail running around, flowers I've never seen before, koi fish pond, a waterfall and so very much more! We were there in winter, but we're told that in May-ish the outdoor garden walk is stunning!This place will not disappoint!! Definitely a must experience when visiting Madison!
Sarah Dennis — Google review
I wish I could give more than 5 stars. These gardens are BEAUTIFUL! Very nice environment outside to walk around, plenty of plants to see as well as wildlife. There are some areas that may be inaccessible for visitors in wheelchairs, but the paths in general are very well kept! Stopping by the Thai gardens is a MUST - stunning architecture and design. Gift shop has fun items as well!
Victoria Schwutke — Google review
Great place to visit on a pleasant day. The outdoor gardens are free and great for a slow stroll through when the weather is nice. The indoor conservatory is worth the $6 as there are unique and rare plants to observe. You can spend as much or as little time here as you please.
Ryan Kuchenmeister — Google review
The Thai garden was definitely our favorite part. The black ponds are really cool. Could visualize many spots for wedding of family pictures. The main building has bathrooms, gift shop, water, and vending. The staff is friendly and helpful. Unbelievable this place is no charge , except for the dome, but please donate to keep this good thing going
Jered Koslowski — Google review
Given the time of the year I visited it, there wasn’t much to see outside, but it was still nice and peaceful (I would definitely visit again during spring or summer).
The bright side was the indoor tropical exhibit, where there are different plants and birds. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop! Free parking.
Ana I. Romero — Google review
This place is wonderful! It's well setup walkthrough of trees, flowers and plants. Most have identification on them, it's very educational and pretty. We also saw a baby owl!! Highly recommend a visit👍👍
Michael Kangas — Google review
We had a great time listening to music, walking around, and exploring the gardens both inside & out. It was a special fundraiser that was relaxing and fun. The music was just the right, you could hear each other talking, not to loud. There were little pockets to sit in, with just a few others. They also had a cash bar for drinks. All in all, fun, friends, and helping raise money for a worthy cause.
Partly Cloudy — Google review
Went here to a rare second bloom. It just so happens I was in town. It only blooms 4 to 5 times in its 40-year life span. The Garden itself is free to get into. Beautiful day to enjoy some nice flora. Nice little gift shop that is worth checking out to grab something to remember the trip.
Drew Tj — Google review
Flowers are in full bloom and the Blooming Butterfly located inside the Blotz Conservatory was a big hit with visitors, young and old. Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16 acre outdoor botanical garden and 10,000-square-foot conservatory in Madison, Wisconsin. Founded in 1952 and named for its founder, Michael Olbrich, the gardens are owned and operated jointly by the City of Madison Parks and the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society.
David Hesterly — Google review
The information desk representative was an exceptional gentleman and very informative/helpful. Great place for family’s and tourists to see a beautiful garden. I was able to get a lot of amazing photos of the plants and they put a lot of love and effort into their establishment. I would say be warned as one of the younger female staff looked tired/bored and seemed to have a tiny bit of an attitude when I asked her a question. Beyond that, some people I had the displeasure of crossing paths with seemed to be bothered with people taking photos, when the website actually encourages you to bring your camera for memorable photos. It seems like some of the visitors here think they are above other people and incredibly snobby. No fault of the staff but would just recommend to watch out for the rude pretentious people that visit this establishment.
If you can ignore people acting a little weird/rude, this place is an absolute gem. Outside garden are free, the conservatory was $6/person. Great value and great memories!
Amanda (Venom) — Google review
We only had time for a quick visit in January so we spent about 30 minutes in the conservatory and did not get to walk outside. They conservatory was great! It's such a peaceful atmosphere. It's very relaxing to look at plants, hear the birds and waterfalls, and feel the tropical climate. A little smaller than other similar places we've visited, but still enough to see. The birds were a great touch. We got to see a quail poke around and the canaries were quite vocal. You can also see a few koi in the water. Many orchids and bromeliads and other interesting plants with great color.
Paul and Lillian Bruns — Google review
A scheduled stop on a road trip with my son back in 2022. First, this place was a lot bigger than I had expected! We visited in early June and unfortunately, it was too early for the flowers. There were some but not many in bloom yet. That was a bummer. However, the weather was beautiful and we wanted to see the Thai Pavilion and Conservatory. Well, we got handed our second strike and the Conservatory was booked for a wedding and closed to the public. On a positive note, it saved us the cost of entry because the grounds were free to enter. So, we walked the park grounds and took pics of the few flowers we did see and made our way to the Thai Pavilion. Wow! The pavilion is spectacular! It shines in the sun like a palace! We got some great photos of it. We walked through some of the trails in the park but came to the realization that the flowers just aren't going to bloom for us and decided to go. The park is beautiful and I'm sure the Conservatory is great. I bet July & August are the best times to visit. All the flowers would be in bloom by then. I highly recommend this place!
D-Rock T — Google review
I enjoyed coming here with my family even during the fall time. it was our first time coming here. We loved the tropical green house and walking around. I give this a 5 star for the sweet ladies who helped my father who was hard time walking. they were so helpful and accommodating. I would love to come back during the summer time!
Millie TV — Google review
The Orchid Escape exhibition is the best! I love the tropical setting and dinosaur theme, the gorgeous flowers and plants, and the friendly animals. 10/10 best experience for friends, family, and lovers 🦕🌴
Aosai Liu — Google review
The Gardens had a beautiful orchid show when we visited in the Conservatory. The outside gardens were still a nice walk even in February.
R. M. Zita Feist — Google review
The gardens were a breath of fresh air to walk through and get to learn about some of the plants and flowers. A great activity to do with family. The light displays are always so pretty too.
Amanda Seefeldt — Google review
Is it possible to give more than 5 stars? This place is drop dead gorgeous and the entrance fee is paltry. I came well past the prime season and they still had great things for me to see. I spent 2.5 hours here.
The Wisconsin State Capitol is an imposing and elegant Beaux-Arts building that dominates the central skyline of Madison. Completed in 1917, its marble and mahogany-clad interior is full of magnificent murals and mosaics. The dome atop the building is bested by Daniel Chester Frenchs exquisite overlaid bronze statue, Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin State Capitol is simply a stunning building. Everyone that is able should take a half hour to walk through this incredible structure. Photos don't do the majesty justice, and you really need to see it for yourself. I highly recommend a visit if you are in the area or passing nearby.
Nick Chill — Google review
Today, we had a tour of the Capitol Building in Madison, Wisconsin. The tour was awesome, and the tour guide was awesome! It was very interesting, and I learned so much. Street parking was available, and the tour group was small. I highly recommend a visit to this place.
Mary Ehr — Google review
This building is so beautiful. They offer free guided tours and I definitely recommend going on one. Our guide was able to take us to places we didn't know about, told us all kinds of interesting facts, and was really friendly. I had no idea we could go up to the observation tower, or that there was a small museum up there! So much fun for free!
Ziva Gunther — Google review
This is an absolutely gorgeous building, I haven't had a single moment I walked into the Capitol Building and it hasn't felt like the first time. The details are all absolutely perfect and if you're able to pet the nose of the Badger outside the Governor's office, please do! They also offer FREE tours during the weekdays along with being able to go up to the observation deck!
Cassandra Wilcox (Cass) — Google review
We had a lovely afternoon visiting the Capitol building for one of the free tours! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and we saw a ton of badgers along the way! The building is magnificent, especially with the Christmas tree and holiday decorations up! The holiday choir was performing as an added plus. Don’t miss the observation deck under the rotunda for even cooler views!
Pallavi Aggarwal — Google review
This place is as gorgeous and interesting to explore as it is important to our state. Marble from floor to ceiling, some imported and not without stories! Take the guided tour and they'll tell you all about it! The capital is extremely impressive, every detail is meticulous. It is a state treasure! Coming in at $7.2 million dollars back in the early 1900s. This is a must see if you are visiting Madison, WI.
Sarah Dennis — Google review
I love that you can come in and look around for free. I highly recommend going to the top and taking a look outside. There are stairs leading to the very top after you take an elevator to the 4th floor. Public restrooms available inside as well. During the holiday season they have a beautiful tree lit up with children’s ornaments. It’s beautiful. Definitely worth checking out!
Faith — Google review
The Capitol building was the most beautiful building that I have seen it was very big and wide, ayo. And the inside of the Capitol was very nice and had lots of pictures of religious images.
ItzScorpy — Google review
Capitol building of Wisconsin state is open from 8 am till evening. Open for public . No entry fee. Architectural work is amazing. Grandeur is visible once you enter inside.Very well maintained and clean interior as well as exterior.
seema prakash — Google review
The architecture is beautiful with breathtaking interior design. It is also open to public for free.
Ayaz N — Google review
Breathtaking views!!! Madison offers a variety of things to do and I’m so grateful I got to see this beautiful sunset stretching above the capitol building.
Sunny P — Google review
The architecture of this state capitol building is nothing short of impressive! The design of both the exterior and interior was stunning, and the view from the observation deck is excellent! The best place inside the capitol building to stand and take pictures is at the very center right underneath the dome. This is a must see when you’re visiting Madison!
N Duncan — Google review
What a unique place! I discovered quite a bit of United States history here. And the paintings are beautifully painted. Lots of architecture to take a look at. And plenty of bathrooms on every floor. If you're looking for a place to sit down, there are leather chairs outside the supreme court courtroom on the second floor, in addition to benches outside the Capitol itself
Golden Monkey Farm Farm — Google review
Free and open to the public. During December there is a big Christmas tree with ornaments from school children throughout the state that is fun to see! The architecture is fantastic.
Isaac Teuscher — Google review
Just gorgeous! Free to visit, guided tours are also offered. Full of history and architectural details
Ana I. Romero — Google review
Insanely beautiful building, gorgeous stone throughout. My family decided to go on the free tour. Our tour guide was absolutely wonderful. My husband uses a wheelchair frequently when going out, and this gentlemen let us know where to go to meet and always made sure we were at the right elevator to rejoin the group. He was very very knowledgeable and informative. The observation deck was outstanding as well, definitely recommended going up there
Taylor Haile — Google review
Several times I've wanted to stop here but just didn't have a lot of time. Finally had a chance to take a stroll around the perimeter. It's an interesting capitol building where you're not quite sure where the front is (maybe there is none). There was some renovation going on but nothing too bad. We were able to find street pay parking immediately but one with a very short time limit.
Patrick Villacorta — Google review
The state capital building is phenomenal.
I enjoyed the magnificent views with an amazing architecture. The ceiling, interior design with huge pillars and with vintage ceiling equipment can't make our eyes even to give a blink
The Henry Vilas Zoo is a great place to visit with kids if you're in Madison, Wisconsin. It has animals from all over the world, plus a variety of gifts and food options for visitors.
What A Amazing Free Zoo, That’s Correct It’s 2022 And There Is Still Something That’s Fun To Do And Free🤘You Can Do The Right Thing And Donate Anything You Can Afford To Give - They Still Enjoy Giving Extra Care To Their Animals!! So Many Different Animals In Such A Beautiful Layout!! Keep Up The Great Carr And The Great Work Of Running Such A Beautiful Zoo!! I Went Multiple Times As A Kid And Now I’ve Taken My Kids To This Zoo!! Great Place To Spend The Day Or Days!! There Is A Lake Near By You Can Enjoy As Well!! Give Those Donations To Them Please And Thank You, This Is What Keeps Them Going!!
T (Frank Dukes) — Google review
I love this little zoo!! It's on the smaller side, but there are plenty of animals to visit. The updates and expansions they've done over the past few years to the enclosures have been great to see. It's a free zoo, but always still plan to bring a donation, because of course taking care of all these beautiful creatures is not free!
melody — Google review
We visited in May before the season started. The zoo wasn't very crowded. Some of the animals were not visible, but it was a nice day for a walk anyway. Depending on the time of year, time of day, feeding schedule, and sleeping times, it's not always possible to see all the animals in most zoos. The Henry Vilas Zoo could perhaps be considered a mid-size zoo, and that is an advantage, making the zoo easy to navigate, and not exhausting to explore. There seem to be plenty of friendly staff assisting visitors and caring for the animals. Visiting the zoo is free, but donations are welcome.
Greg Johnson — Google review
It’s the perfect size zoo. I wish there were more animals but what we did see looked to be enjoying themselves. Grizzlies foraging for bugs. The polar bear was swimming and then rolling in mud. The tiger was taking a nap in the sun. The lions were roaming. The river otter was swimming. I didn’t like seeing that the orangutan was all by itself though. I think some of these animals need company.
The carousel is lovely. The gift shop is extremely expensive now but, inflation. All in all this is a nice zoo and it’s free. Parking is free as well. We had fun.
A — Google review
It is amazing how the zoo has changed over the years. No more giraffes, camels, penguins. But they still have a lot of other critters to see. A bottle of water was $5.26. Yikes. Kids still love the zoo but I suggest a nice picnic before going in.
Barry Dean — Google review
We love coming to this zoo. It's the perfect size for little kids to be able to walk and not get too worn out. It's nice in the winter too, if you bundle up and it's not too cold you can still have a great experience. The lions are often active and roaring. The polar bear is very active and likes to swim. There is a family of 5 otters to see too. We miss being able to go into the monkey and reptile area that has been closed to the public since COVID started. In the summer time the playground is open and is a great place to run around and play.
J Hyttsten — Google review
I was glad to see that they have more animals now, there's more places to eat/snack inside the zoo. Last time we were here(6 yrs) they were doing some construction and they didn't have a lot of animals. We all had a great time. My personal favorite was the tiger. There is no fee to enter the zoo, they just ask for a donation. The parking lot is small so I would recommend going early. You can also park on the street around the park.
Maria Fernandez — Google review
Henry Villas Zoo is definitely one of the best zoos in Wisconsin. First of all, it's FREE. Yes, you read that correctly. There's no cover charge. The exhibits are well laid out and there are some pretty unique and amazing creatures here. Our favorites are the orangutan family (and a baby orangutan, she's so adorable!!), Tiger, lions, rhinoceros, giraffe, polar bear, otters, anaconda, and MORE! The park isn't excessively large & is well laid out. There's an amazing kids plaza area (seriously, it's incredible). The store is a must see and definitely purchase some stuff to help them keep up the park and superb animal care.
Lex Lynne — Google review
We always have an absolutely great time at this zoo. There us a wide array of animals, as well as a few buildings with other animals. Wonderful playground and children's zoo. There were lots of baby animals when we went today. Also Joe near the exit at guest services was THE NICEST person ever. My kids loved interacting with him and getting a stamp
Taylor Haile — Google review
Really nice zoo. We went on a weekday and it wasn't too crowded. If recommend going early in order to find parking. The animals seemed well cared for and appeared to have appropriate enrichment and good conditions, as well as places to escape the crowds. I would definitely visit again and enjoyed this zoo significantly more than many of the highly recommended commercialized zoos in the country. The zoo staff were friendly and knowledgeable as well.
Liz Thompson — Google review
Great place to take our animal loving children on vacation! A 4 yr old and a 6 yr old found a lot of things to be joyful about even in the cold of March and the rainy/snowy weather! Great playground, cool art/sculptures, and great animal views!
Sally Riccardi — Google review
Nice place to visit during weekend. Lots of animals. Kids will enjoy for sure. There is no entry fee. But you can donate at the entrance for your visit. Rhino, giraffe, tiger and lion were very active during our visit.
kabil jacob — Google review
If you want to have a nice little walk around a beautiful park with the family and see some animals while doing so this is a great place to go. It's small but quaint with a nice variety of animals and plenty of fun things for your little ones to do. Entrance is free which is another plus. Only issue was parking which is why I gave it a 4 star rating.
Cynthia Melendez — Google review
This Zoo has a surprisingly good selection of animals and exhibits for a free to public zoo. The weather was a little cool that day, but it seemed to have been favorable to most of the animals, too. I wanted to give it 5 stars because for a free zoo (they do take donations), they do a good job overall with the animals and exhibits. The only thing that seemed it could be better was some basic maintenance here and there, especially with cleaning up the glass on some of the exotic animal exhibits. This is a great little getaway for half a day or so with the family or just anyone who appreciates the animals and nature. I'd love to see what they could do with this place should the city pump some money into the zoo. You'd think with all those taxes in the Madison area, they could put some of it to use for the public by investing in public spaces like the zoo. Overall, I definitely recommend this place, and they have some land and picnic tables out by the parking lots as well, so pack a lunch or snacks it's a great little half day or so getaway.
Austin Waddick — Google review
This zoo is just the right size for a day trip. Very manageable to navigate and see a wide variety of animals. The only place it gets crowded is inside the reptiles exhibit. The primates building is probably the highlight especially if you are able to catch the monkeys playing.
I would recommend coming through the back entrance that is on Vilas Park Drive. Much more available parking back there.
Sydni Foley — Google review
large variety of animals, well-kept and clean grounds, free entry, variety of food spots (including a chocolate shoppe ice cream). I have such great memories of coming here when I was a little toddler and it’s nice to see that the quality of this zoo has stayed consistent. I love how close you can see all of the animals, especially the giraffe. We ate at mickies dairy bar then spent the afternoon here. What a great day!
Mira — Google review
Very nice layout and decent amount of animals that we saw for the zoo's size. Wished the avian flu outbreak wasn't around which quarantined all their birds but we did get a glimpse of the Flamingos.
Recommend for all ages.
Walter Fritz — Google review
Our family has gone here for years. Very clean and so much to do and see. I love the fact that it’s free (we usually like to donate anyways) worth coming and checking it out. It’s one of our favorite Madison spots
DeeAnna Straub — Google review
I am impressed that this zoo is free. They have cool animals. Both adults going on a date or for kids with family, this is a must visit!
Apple H — Google review
Always good animals here. Less to see in winter but so happy it's a free zoo. Sad that Eddie the giraffe got moved elsewhere. Highly recommend!
Belle Bunny — Google review
My family and I travel quite a bit and have been to many zoo's, with that being said I didn't have high expectations for this zoo - especially since it's free. I was seriously so impressed, it is one of the cleanest zoos I have been to! It's not huge, but it's a perfect size for my kiddos to manage without being exhausted. There's a good variety of animals and all enclosures are well maintained and clean. We had a wonderful time and I would highly recommend it!
M W — Google review
Having traveled all over the USA, coming back to Madison has showed me how great this zoo really is. Not only is it free, but it is clean, friendly, and fun for the family. The animals all look happy, healthy, and taken care of with clean enclosures. For a free zoo… this zoo is a must see when you come to Madison!
Jake Pelaez — Google review
This zoo is free. Is a smaller zoo. We had fun although not too many active animals. Would be a better option in summer when more activities are open.
Melissa Rose — Google review
KIDS LOVE THIS ZOO!
It’s a nice place to look at wild animals in the wilderness. Lots of animals and fun for the little ones. They have carousel, playground and train as part of many other activities. We had a wonderful time here.
Akila Iyer — Google review
Very nice zoo with active, happy animals! It has lots of exhibits, bathrooms, eating areas, and a huge playground area, I also love the goats.
Craft brewery featuring a tasting room, gifts, self-guided tours & reservation-only hard hat tours.
This is one of the best breweries we have ever visited. The buildings are so beautiful with the Swiss theme. The outside tasting area is so relaxing, & beautiful! You good stay there all day and enjoy the great tasting beer while relaxing & enjoying nature. Clean & beautiful. Looking forward when they can be fully open on the weekends for more people to enjoy. The gift shop has something for everyone. Love the home of the Spotted cow! Thank you to all the staff who make it a great place to visit.
Maggie81 — Google review
For years I have been giving people money if the get to visit here. Well now it's my turn! I loved it here! The self tour was fun as it allowed us to see everything at our own pace. The tap room and beer room were fun too! So many great flavors and old standards. I will always be a supporter of New Glarus Brewing.
Marc Gregory — Google review
Had a day off so I went to the New Glarus Brewing Company, I wanted to come here before I left Wisconsin, really kool place. Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to take the tour but I bought some really nice souvenirs to take back with me, which I thought were reasonably priced, also taking a case of spotted cow back with me. 👍🏽
Dagoberto J Rodriguez — Google review
One of my favorite breweries of all time. I’ve been drinking their beer for 2 decades. We finally made a trip to visit the brewery and were not disappointed. The tour and tastings were great. I wish I could have bought more souvenirs to bring home. We had a great visit and will come back any time we return to the area.
Lane Milde — Google review
It's one of my favorite breweries ever. Have been here twice in my life, and both have been the capstone of amazing road trips to get here. The tour is fun, people are friendly, and the beer is downright amazing. Amazing enough, I accidently told my coworkers where I was going, and well, the cases ordered almost didn't fit in the car.
Jakob Barker — Google review
So glad we FINALLY made it down to New Glarus to see the brewery and have some fresh and tasty brews! So cool to be able to walk the grounds at our own pace. We did not do the guided tour but I'm sure it would be amazing! Had some snow falling when we were there which made for awesome pictures of the exterior of the building as well! Highly highly recommend! Note: brewery only open during the weekday
Anthony Harrington — Google review
Been wanting to come here for a long time. Bulk ordering area is nice. Self guided tour is cool. All the cool places to walk and sit is awesome. The beer serving area could be better… I’m sure they were transitioning to another area. Love it. Excited to mule 3 cases of spotted cow home to Texas!
Jonathan Oetken — Google review
Took the self guided tour of complete processing amazing set up very clean and well planned set up. staff quite courteous.
Bear testing is very exciting though changeable one must go for tasting. we spend about 2 hours enjoying everything.
Sunil Thaker — Google review
Enjoyed the self guided tour and the beer tasting. As a hard core fan of spotted cow beer, this was an informative tour that was on our list for the last 3years.
Tours allow you to see the brewing process, fermentation tanks, bottling, labeling and packaging.
Self guided tours are offered on weekdays up until 5pm. Hard hat tours are limited to Friday for a max of 20people.
The beer depot offers all their beer ranges to take home.
Pruthvi Ks — Google review
Old-world charm .... good place to tour to see how beer is produced.
On weekends, the alphorns play.
Beer tasting & buying along with a gift shop & small museum about the history of beer. It was a very nice experience... like being in Europe!
Mary Soddy — Google review
New Glarus Brewing Company offers amazing beers of highest quality and taste. Spotted Cow is the flagship beer, and probably the best beer available. The hard hat tour is pretty amazing, for the pride and passion that goes into every bottle, keg, and can is inspiring.
Clinton Stumpf — Google review
Fun brewery to tour and a great gift shop. Unfortunately they are currently not open on the weekends. The beer garden is really nice. You have to buy tickets for beers. They have some common stuff on tap but also some you don't see often. With your first beer you get a souvenir glass and a drink token for one of the fun local bars so if you plan on stopping in town it's a great deal.
M D — Google review
Amazing Brewery, with an Amazing story!
Gorgeous property, with a great experience!
Self guided tour was really great with plenty of information to make it a great experience. There’s a video about the entire history of the brewery, the family, and how “Spotted Cow” came to be. ADA accessible. Plenty of restrooms so you can take your time and be casual on your time here. There’s a sampling area, where you can buy a 3 drink sampler, or your favorite pint. You get to keep your glass, and a free drink token to enjoy a beer at participating locations. Gift shop with a great selection of local items, including Bobs B*tchin BBQ sauce! Absolutely love this brewery!!
Daily Driver — Google review
The brewery is great with a great story along with it. They let you walk around in a self-guided tour, and the grounds are great too! It's a cool town, too... check out downtown New Glarus, they call it 'little Switzerland'
David Renard — Google review
This is a quaint brewery to tour. It looks like a German village. The success story of the owners is wonderful. We were not able to get tickets for the hard hat tour since they were sold out. We enjoyed the self guided tour and a sample
Adele — Google review
Really like the grounds, location and the tour and take home beers. Tasting room could be improved. Just 3 standing tables. Add some seating and tables to make it more welcoming.
The Fireside Dinner Theatre, situated in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, began as a summer theater and has since grown into a year-round dinner theater. It offers a wide range of productions, from classic musicals to contemporary hits, providing an immersive and entertaining experience for its audiences. With a focus on delivering high-quality performances and culinary excellence, the Fireside Dinner Theatre has become a cherished cultural establishment over nearly six decades.
I would give Fireside Dinner Theatre more stars if I could. I love that place. Yes it's pricier than I like to pay but the experience is so worth it. The restaurant is beautiful, the food is amazing, the staff is so friendly and helpful, and the shows never disappoint. The talent is phenomenal.
OK the seats are not generous in size, and it got hot in there, but that's the only negative I can add.
The gift shops are fun, always with unique items.
I would love season tickets. I would go see every show if it was in my budget. As it is, it's a very special treat once in awhile.
Margie Smith — Google review
First visit, amazing! Food was excellent, pretzel chicken. Drinks were very unique and great! Get the big volcano. Service was top notch from Gavin, fantastic on all accounts! And the. The show, Grumpy Old Men. Cast was incredible and venue is old fashioned throw back to 1960! A must experience.
Bikes Boats Boots WI — Google review
I went to the Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson, WI with my family to see the Jersey Boys! I had never been to the Fireside Theater, and I was very excited about going here for the first time. The show was amazing, and the story was very interesting. The singing and dancing of these actors was so wonderful, and the choreography was so incredible! My feet and hands were tapping during the entire show, and I enjoyed every moment of it! I had an awesome view of the stage, and the lighting was amazing! The food here is so delicious, the servings are very generous. We had soup, salmon, rice and New York style cheesecake, all of it being cooked to perfection! There were some cute shops here with unique items for sale. I will definitely be back here for another show, and I highly recommend a visit to this theatre.
Mary Ehr — Google review
Fantastic, beautiful theatre in the round. Super nice staff, very friendly. I'd give it ten stars if that were possible Everyone is great from the restaurant staff to the people running the theatre.The food in the buffet is to die for so if you visit and don't eat there, you are really missing out. I'm already looking forward to going back for dinner tonight! Saw my favorite Rolling Stones show, Mick Adams and The Stones and as usual, they did not disappoint. Really cool stage in the round! Great show, standing ovation!
Erin O — Google review
Yesterday, we went to See the Wizard of Oz. From the moment we stepped into the building we felt like family. I haven't been there since I was in high school in the early 80's. My husband and I were in awe. The staff was fantastic! The food was AMAZING! The drinks were top notch. Watching the staff work together was incredible. The facility is beautiful and incredibly clean. Not only did we see the General Manager working just as hard as every one else, but at the end of the performance, the owner was greeting people as they came out of the theater. I can't wait to go back. We were so very happy we chose those for the last day of our vacation. It was a perfect ending to an amazing week. Thank you to all of the staff of the Fireside!
Paula Loomis — Google review
Fantastic as always ! My mom loves the Thursday night buffets. It was her 81st b-day and my cousin’s soon to be 75. They offer pre-paid b-day surprise gift packages and wish their b-day guests “Happy Birthday” At the start of concert. :) Service is great with friendly attentive servers. We saw The Legions in Concert 🎵 and it was so entertaining. Dusty Springfield, Rod Stewart, Freddy Mercury, Adel and Elton John.
Kathern Paige — Google review
My husband and I visited April 6th to watch the evening show of Fiddler on the Roof. The food was amazing, and so was the performance!
Our only gripe was when we arrived at the recommended arrival time, the previous show was just getting out and made getting disability parking (and unloading) very tricky. Unfortunately we didn’t have time to shop in the gift shops, due to the lost time.
Elizabeth Nowak (QueenBrimley) — Google review
Amazing experience! Took my daughter and mother in law to the show today. The meal, show and service was so wonderful. We went to Cinderella and it was very well put on! My daughter told me she can't wait to come again!
Sara Bender — Google review
The service here was excellent! We were there for the Friday night buffet. The baked fish with peppercorn sauce was very good. The haddock had a pretty heavy breading, which made it a bit more greasy than we prefer. The chicken wasn't too bad either. The breading was soft vs. a little crisp or crunchy but had good flavor. Other items that were good were the Yukon gold potatoes, potato pancakes, and mac and cheese.
Aaron Seiser — Google review
This was my first time to the Fireside, although my daughter and my parents have been attending for years. The service was outstanding, the food was tasty, and well thought out although the variety of options are not enormous. The theater in the round experience after the meal probably varies depending on the show, but the one we saw was really fun, and I've only heard good reviews from the shows I didn't get to attend. We will definitely be back.
Scott Hartman — Google review
SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS!!!!! Is all i can say about FIRESIDE. I Went to see MARY POPPINS tonight with my lovely wife of 2 years. We were celebrating our 2nd anniversary and The show was outstanding. The cast phenomenal. It was my first time seeing a Broadway type show and I was floored. I did not need a 'SPOON FULL OF SUGAR' to help the delicious food to go down in a very delightful way thats for sure. Executive Chef J. Cook and his kitchens cooking was 'PRACTICALLY PERFECT' in every way. The wait staff were 'STEP IN TIME' with 'PRECISION AND ORDER'. I can't say enough about my experience. What I will tell you however is that I do plan on going again. Maybe not for MARY POPPINS but I will go again.
Larry Redmond — Google review
My Mom and I went here on Saturday to celebrate her birthday to have lunch and see the Titanic. I have been here many times over the past 20 years, and it never gets old. The food is always great, the drinks are delicious, the waitstaff are very friendly and professional and the actors/singers are oh so talented. We loved it, and we definitely will be back!
Jennifer Hiemer — Google review
Always enjoy going to the Fireside! It's really a good time! Great performances & a lovely brunch on Sundays! The staff is very friendly & helpful too. Nice bar/lounge to relax with a cocktail & plenty of shops with all kinds of special items to buy. You won't regret purchasing some cheddar bread to take home either...it's delish!
Bonnie McGraw — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed dinner and the play. The food was amazing!! I loved the layout of the Fireside. Cute little shops. Every seat was a great seat in the theater! Highly recommended.
Christine Smith — Google review
A wonderful way to have a magical evening with friends or family. We went on a Thursday buffet night. Servers were very attentive and efficient giving us enough time to browse in the shops before the show started. The performance was entertaining and ended a perfect evening.
D K — Google review
I typically don’t rate 5/5 stars, but this was very well deserved. Beginning with the service, our waitress was friendly, polite, and professional. She was helpful answering questions regarding the menu, and was highly efficient. The pace that the food was served was timed out perfectly, and the portions are well calculated. Tasting the food was on another level… the food was cooked at their respective rates. Posted is the appetizer, tomato soup. It was creamy and flavorful it came out hot, but not burning your mouth hot. The strawberry daiquiri was dangerous as little alcohol was tasted and the strawberry was very heavy. That being mentioned, it was delicious as it wasn’t too icy where I had to wait for it to melt. It was a perfect amount of slushy and hit the spot for an alcoholic drink before a show! The salmon, potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli, with melted butter in a small side bowl is also pictured. The salmon was flakey, melted right in your mouth, and the seasoning was blissful. Potatoes were cooked just right, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Broccoli was buttery and savory along side with the cauliflower. Lastly, there was the black cherry chocolate cake. It was very most and fluffy. It was a nice light touch after a hardy meal and it definitely was the cherry on top! I’m not a huge fan of cherries, but the sauce did it justice. The temperature of the building was comfortable. The restaurant is a tad chilly, but after you sit for a while it gets warm. The theatre definitely gets warm with all the body heat, but it cooled down in the second half and made it for a pleasant second act. Overall the temperature of the building is comfortable, and I’m one to get cold easily and had no issues. Moving onto the show, it was something like no other. A square theatre, and intimate for actors and the audience to kind of “interact” with each other. It’s always laughter, smiles, light and warm conversations before and after!
Olivia Freitag — Google review
I am SO happy with our visit! I got to bring my 6 month old with me and it was our very first time here and I just fell in love with this place! The shops are so adorable, the staff is extremely friendly and our waiter was just absolutely amazing. But the absolute best thing was the scrooge musical. Every single one of those cast members performed from their hearts and you can just tell how much they love to entertain just by how hard they have worked to put on such an amazing show. My little girl was just dancing away with the first song and the very last song, plus she got to wave to “the ghost of christmas past” at the very end and she had the biggest smile on her face. Thank you all so much for a great way to remember my daughter’s very first christmas! The pamphlet is going in her baby book for it being her very first musical. ❤️ Merry Christmas to you all!!!
Brianna Carli — Google review
The Fireside is a fantastic dining and entertainment experience in Wisconsin. I have been there many times over the past 25 years, and every visit was really good. The food stresses a quality over quantity approach, but you will be full by the final course. The theater is a unique experience, with audience seating on all four sides of the stage. There are no bad seats. Likewise, the quality of the performances is consistently excellent. This is a great place to celebrate an anniversary or birthday.
If you're looking for a great hike.
The North Shore portion of the path offers breathtaking views of the lake and incredible homes.
Dan Leunig — Google review
Drove up from Chicago for a little day trip in Lake Geneva. It is a cute seasonal town, but like most seasonal towns, doesn’t have a lot to do in off-season. We mainly came up to walk the lakeshore path. There are quite a few entry points, some with parking and some with parking about 1/2 mile away to access point.
Trail is not accessible for all, it is narrow at most points with uneven ground mainly due to the type of stones or pathway the owners want. It varies from dirt, rocks, flag stone, cement, synthetic wood, etc.
you do need to plan as you can’t simply exit wherever you want.
One major negative to walking this in the off season is that almost all the owners have their docks and boat lifts scattered all along the path. It’s a major major eye sore. Very disappointing. We noticed the north side had them way closer to the trail and many more of them. South side has more space and most were somewhat out of eye sight and way.
They really do interfere with you attempt at a pleasant walk. And during peak season I imagine the trial is packed and that would also make for an annoying walk.
Elizabeth Kirwan — Google review
It was a beautiful day. My English bulldog absolutely loves it. Going there I make it his day. I go shopping. He walks until he gets tired and then I put him in his stroller. We have lunch at a restaurant where we can sit outside
Cindy Kelley — Google review
Lake Geneva is a beautiful area to walk around. Beach is nice, but busy & they charge a fee for entrance. We went to the free nature preserve, and it was quiet and relaxing.
Robin Mistic — Google review
I love looking at the lake, boats and other people just having a good time with their families & pets. I feel safe there and it's a wonderful place to relax, enjoy nature and good food. Parking can be somewhat difficult but you can park in a side street and walk to park area.
NaturEli — Google review
I would recommend the west end of the trail for a comfortable walk. The east trail is more difficult and had some spots so overgrown that we were worried about what we were brushing up against. We turned back on the east trail. The west side is good for a casual walk. The east side is better suited for hikers.
Ana Carmona — Google review
Favorite place to go year round for the beauty, history, lush grounds and not to forget healthy long walks! Fall colors are gorgeous!
Danielle Smith — Google review
Awesome trail, lots of nice paths, beautiful houses to look at
Ross Wahlgren — Google review
Hiked the full 21/22 miles of shore path in one go on a beautiful day in May- so many amazing properties and gardens and mansions that were jaw-dropping. Honestly, something unique at every turn!
Trails go through private properties and each portion of the trail is kept up by the owners- so even the trail itself is unique from section to section! Loved it.
Total activity time (actual walking) was 8 hours 35 min, we took a break for lunch and a few hours later for coffee and stretched every hour. Started at 9:45 am and finished about 7:45 pm
Emily Ebeling — Google review
You could call this walk around the lake an architecture tour. The houses surrounding the lake are huge with some interesting designs. So if you want to ogle some nice houses while being close to nature and stretching your legs this is a nice route to take
Tyron Pretorius — Google review
We did about 3 miles out and back from the library NW. loved the walk and the diversity of the houses, yards and paths. Crazy big money on this lake and so amazing we can enjoy the path. Nice fall day so not many out. But can only imagine what it is like in summer if they are out there trying to enjoy their backyard. Respect their yards while you appreciate the walk. We are going to do another stint today.
Nikki — Google review
Enjoyable walking path!! Variety in scenery along the way. Each homeowner along the way is responsible for their section of path, so some path areas are much nicer than others. Be prepared to walk all types of terrain.
ShyGirl 4Life — Google review
This is a great path that circles all of Lake Geneva. There are lovely private homes to one side of the path and fabulous lake views on the other side. The trail is not completely flat but we did not encounter any steep inclines on the four miles we covered. However, we have been on this path in both Winter and Spring. We found Winter walking a bit rough. The ground cover changes as you go from grass, to gravel, to stones, to wood, etc... It is a narrow path in some places and it is necessary to step aside at times when people are going in the opposite direction. A local told us that the total path covers about 23 - 26 miles and takes about 8 - 9 hours for her family to cover in it's entirety. We're looking forward to trying it soon.
Miranda Steier — Google review
We love walking down the shore on the path in Lake Geneva. They have an area that is reserved for dogs only for them to enjoy the lake water. We enjoy watching the dogs swim and play fetch. Lots of things to do in Lake Geneva. Great town but it gets crowded on the weekends.
The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is a small venue that hosts family-friendly magic and illusion shows. In addition to the performances, the theater features a gift shop and lobby. The show itself is captivating and engaging, with Tristan's presentation skills being particularly noteworthy. His assistant Shannon adds to the overall experience with her stunning presence on stage. The theater provides modern and comfortable accommodations for all guests while maintaining professional standards of service from its staff.
Excellent show. Tristan brought several people on to the stage and performed the illusions with their assistance and was available for pictures after with anyone. There are no bad seats but only about 120 seats available. Price was reasonable. My family and I enjoyed it a lot and I am sure you will as well.
Mark Boyd — Google review
Best Magic Show Ever!!!
Tristan Crist is amazing. The Theate is small, but perfect because you get a more upclose and personal show. You get to meet and greet, plus take pictures with Mr. Crist since you can't take any pictures or videos during the show. Plenty of parking, plus handicap parking available too.
The Punisher — Google review
Our first time here and it was just amazing! Nothing bad to say about the show at all. Interaction with the crowd was fun and they even threw in a lot of funny humor which was great for us adults. Meet and greet at the end with pictures and autographs which was neat! Good memories made
Shelly W — Google review
Theater was clean and every seat had a great view! Tristan's illusions were fantastic and his great interaction was so fun!
Danielle Smith — Google review
I rarely give anything 5 stars but this place deserves it. Tritan Crist is an Excellent Illusionist and he has a great, fun personality. Brett Daniels who performs with him has great slight of hand. Well Well worth $40 good for all ages, clean place, free parking, beer ,wine,popcorn,candy sold onsight.
Dan G — Google review
I went to see Tristan Crist & Brett Daniels tonight for the first time and I was not let down at all. It was AMAZING! Every trick was so done perfectly and my eyes couldn’t believe what I was seeing. It was so much fun. A plus is that is very interactive and they loved involving the audience in their acts. The snacks were very fairly priced and the bathrooms were very clean. We got to meet the magicians after the show and they were so nice! I highly recommend going to this show, you will not be disappointed! I mean, who else just makes a giant helicopter appear on stage in just a few seconds?? It’s totally worth the $42. Go see this show, you will regret it if you don’t!
Emily — Google review
Absolutely fantastic show. The crew members were very polite and professional at will call, the waiting area was well maintained, and there were clear instructions on wait times, etc. The show itself was a wonderful experience! There was comedy, illusion, magic, and amazing stage lighting, and sound! The show is a work of art that I would enjoy experiencing again. The clothing style of the performers was visually appealing as well. A well put together show that was worth the time and money. No disappointment whatsoever. The owner seemed to appreciate his customers and was friendly and professional!
Moni — Google review
We had a great time for the show, we purchased tickets online and was able to pick up 1 hour before the show. They sell drinks and food to bring in. There are seats for only 100 or so people, feels small but can see from any seat. There is an intermission, if you are a larger person there may not be a good seat for you.
Heather Friedrich — Google review
I saw the Tristan Crist show this past weekend. This is the second time I have seen the show as I was in the area a year ago. The show is as good the second time as the first time. He has put in a number of new illusions so the show was fresh and as enjoyable. So if you have seen the show one time I definitely would recommend seeing it a second time. Tristan is crisp and engaging with his presentations, everyone is treated with respect. His performance skills are very well done. His assistant Shannon is stunning and is an amazing foil for Tristan. The theater is modern and comfortable. The staff is highly professional. I highly recommend.
Ev Gulick — Google review
Took my wife and 2 boys ages 7 and 8 years of age. The show was fantastic, which really makes you think of how was that's done and just very cool. My boys stay tuned througho the t entire show. Good times for all. The Magician slight of hand in between the main performances was excellent as well.
Peter Stocks — Google review
Our family had a magnificent time at the show. Amazing performance!
Nicole Riopelle — Google review
This is a show worth 3x the price! It is superb. Very family friendly. Entertaining and reminiscent of Vegas style entertainment. However, Tristan’s personality on stage is warm and engaging. His acts feature incredibly strong illusions that are unbelievably delivered. There is nothing negative to be said. Great job to Tristan and all the staff.
gina caballeros — Google review
Always fun for me to see a magic show ✨️ 😊 175 seat theater with great performances of comedy, slight of hand, & large stage illusions. As an avid fan of magic for all ages, I would definitely attend again 👍👍
Martonio Magic — Google review
First time going, loved the small venue. Tristan was so personable, funny and very good as an illusionist also had a wonderful magician some audience participation. 90 minute show thought the ticket price was very reasonable. They also come out in the lobby for pictures like a meet and greet after the show
Debbie Kummelehne — Google review
We absolutely loved the Show, and still trying to figure out how Tristan got that helicopter 🚁 on the stage...lol 🤔
Debbie Cecola — Google review
We loved tonight’s show! It was very fast paced and kept our attention throughout the entire performance. I especially liked Tristan Crist’s personality. He seems humble and was really funny. We enjoyed the acts by Bret Daniels so much also. Real professionals with high quality equipment and illusions. I would have paid three+ times the ticket price to see this show. Great venue with no wait to pick up our tickets or get snacks. It was an amazing night! Thank you.
Heather T — Google review
Absolutely astonishing and a terrifically fun time for the whole family! I would drive to Lake Geneva just to watch this show. My teenage son and my 7 year old daughter had such a blast! Highly recommend.
Samira Jimenez — Google review
Wow. When they say 'Vegas-style' entertainment, they aren't lying. Beautiful theatre, beautiful performers. Loved the opportunity to meet Tristan and Shannon after the performance. They're terrific people.
Anderson Japanese Gardens is a peaceful and expansive 12-acre garden in the traditional Japanese style, complete with a delightful farm-to-table cafe. Though not the largest of gardens, it boasts stunning beauty that makes it well worth visiting. The gift shop offers a diverse range of items for visitors to peruse, and the walking trail is enjoyable for all – particularly as certain sections are handicap accessible.
Beautiful time to go see this garden. Worth the drive! The vibrant colors of the leaves starts from the parking lot. Gorgeous place to just take your time and breathe in nature. Restaurant was ok. Regular restaurant. I wish they would up the Japanese experience with getting more authentic food. But still good I definitely recommend making a reservation. And they accommodate gluten free allergies.
Jacqueline Jablonski — Google review
Beautiful little gardens feels very authentic. There. There are lots of little spots off the path where you can sit and just enjoy the serene beauty. Highlights include the little buildings themselves that are very oriental and make and seem quite authentic. Unfortunately these gardens are quite small and for $11 entry it almost is a little too expensive. It's more like a $5 entertainment for maybe an hour maybe an hour maybe an hour maybe an hour Max
Wisco Simple — Google review
Incredible Japanese garden tucked into a suburban area of Rockford. One of the most beautiful, well maintained, and thoughtful gardens I have been to in a long time. Full of amazing little areas to discover. There is also a restaurant on site and an amazing gift shop selling all kinds of cool Japanese items including snacks. This place is well worth a visit even if you have to go out of your way a bit. The craftsmanship and care is incredible. Admission is 13 dollars for adults.
Susannah Ball — Google review
Enjoyed feeding the fish and birds, the gardens were breathtaking, and the buildings were so nice. There was a lot of musty smell to the buildings, but they were absolutely gorgeous. I loved the little hidden gems, too.
Amaya Okazaki — Google review
What an amazing space inside of Rockford! Meticulously maintained gardens that are lush and full of calming water features. Really great way to spend a few hours.
Scott Mitchell — Google review
We visited on the last weekend of October and had a wonderful time. The grounds were well-maintained and there was lots to see and experience. The map was helpful since it was our first visit. There are frequent benches and seating areas which makes the route as peaceful and restful as you want it to be. We spent about an hour and half strolling the gardens. I will say, drinks at the coffee bar near the restaurant were super overpriced and serves in an unprofessional way, but everything else was top notch!
Beth Carter — Google review
The Rockford Japanese Gardens is truly a gem worth exploring. As an avid garden enthusiast, I can confidently say that it ranks among the finest I've encountered. Located in the beautiful Rockford area, this garden offers an exquisite blend of tranquility and natural beauty. From the meticulously designed landscapes to the captivating water features, every aspect exudes a sense of serenity. The attention to detail is remarkable, showcasing the mastery of Japanese gardening techniques. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a serene oasis, providing a much-needed escape from the bustling world. A visit to the Rockford Japanese Gardens is a must for anyone seeking solace in nature's embrace.
aidanjeffrey — Google review
The organizational flow in the garden is very efficient. There was a shortage on parking, so extra parking lots were sourced from the area, with two shuttle going back and forth all day long.
The restaurant offers a fair variety of foods and drinks, that were really great! Little events were staged all afternoon, and some were really educational, apart from the entertaining aspects and soothing live Japanese instrumental music. The garden itself, though not styled to present many flower types, was full of exquisite greenery, calming areas, flowing streams, waterfalls and ponds. lending itself to peaceful, contemplative states of mind.
We were also able to purchase beautiful kimonos and garments for men and women.
A full experience that we will return to, for certain!
Johann Smit — Google review
These gardens are absolutely gorgeous and so well maintained! I highly recommend visiting here as well as the nearby Laurent House (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright). This was my first visit, and I would love to come back in the spring to see everything in bloom.
R P — Google review
Garden was beautiful. It is not the biggest garden out there, but definitely worth the visit. The gift shop has a nice variety of items. The walking trail is great, and having certain parts handicap accessible is a plus. Make sure you buy some fish food to feed the fish and ducks, it's a fun experience to have.
I. S. — Google review
Love this place, they even have little sections where you can take photos. Its breathtaking and gorgeous.
Got some neat pictures with my fiancé and my brother. We chose this location because it sounded cool and it was amazing! Ive only met my brother twice and I am so glad that me and him got to see this place as one of our meet ups!!! 💗
Jinx Truce — Google review
It's been over 10 years since I visited Anderson Gardens and it's just as lovely as I remembered. The volunteers in the garden were helpful and the gift shop was filled with items ranging from tea sets to candies and treats that your anime loving friend would enjoy.
Despite the heat and lack of significant rainfall everything looked great and there was plenty of areas to get out of the sun.
Kristen — Google review
It is an excellent place for relaxation with the family. If you are a fitness conscious individual, you will definitely get your steps here while enjoying nature.
If you plan on staying for a couple of hours and you'll hit lunchtime, try to eat first before strolling so you won't have to join the crowd at the cafe during lunch hour. They have good food at a reasonable price. Expect to spend at least $20-$25/person for food.
Once you are energized after a visit to their cafe, you are ready to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
sophia ruiz — Google review
The gardens are well-maintained and easy to walk around. There are plenty of benches where you can sit and relax and enjoy the scenery. The gardens are a great place to visit for a peaceful walk, a romantic stroll, or a family outing.
It is a lovely place to visit. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some peace and tranquility. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Rockford, Illinois
Jasper JD — Google review
Anderson Japanese Garden is a beautiful out door setting that inspires the mind and energies the soul.
The Anderson Japanese Gardens is a 12-acre (4.9 ha) Japanese garden located in Rockford, Illinois.
Established in 1978, its home to many species of colorful fish, minks, and ducks. In the "Garden of Reflection" beetle traps hang over the water to encourage these fish to surface for food. Professional photography is only permitted after hours with management approval, but amateur photography is encouraged. There are also many forbidden paths that lead up to the Anderson home.
March to May is best time to visit. All the beauties you can capture during this period only.
Entrance fees is very very reasonable for spending whole day.
In weekdays its $12 max. kids below 5 are free.
In weekends its $13 max. and kids below 5 are free
Special rates for seniors and students on all days.
Anderson Japanese Gardens evolved from an individual’s vision to create a unique amenity for the Rockford region into an internationally renowned public garden. The founder’s principals of authentic design, first-class craftsmanship and world-class maintenance have led to the Gardens’ reputation as one of the finest Japanese gardens in the world
Praween Kumar — Google review
This is a hidden gem out in the suburbs. Located in Rockford which is quite a drive from the Chicago area. Tickets for an adult are $11-13. I only came here once just because of the distance but I wouldn’t mind coming back in the summer. They have alluring, breathtaking waterfalls here and koi in the ponds. Just a reminder, this place is for relaxing and being stress free. They do have a restaurant but I didn’t eat there. On their online menu, I noticed it’s not very Japanese oriented. Parking is sufficient, it doesn’t really get busy here.
Nicholas P — Google review
Totally worth the time to stop by here. The gardens are lush and well-tended and it makes for a nice outing with anyone, or all by yourself. The attached restaurant is quite nice and delicious though a bit pricy and there’s a gift store you can get some interesting things in.
Ben Herman — Google review
Perhaps the most extraordinary garden I have ever had the privilege of visiting. I cannot believe this is in Northern Illinois--I felt like I was back visiting Japan so many years ago. We visited in May of 2022 in what may have been one of the best seasons to visit. I've been itching to go back and see what else they accomplish in other seasons. One can get peacefully lost for hours in this place.
Kriz Rbsn — Google review
Had a wonderful time at their Illuminated event. From the light display, to hot chocolate and woodfired pizza - it was a great way to kick off the holiday season! Love coming here!
Michael Tesluk — Google review
Beautiful park. It is smaller than maybe some other gardens but definitely worth checking-in and strolling around, especially now that the fall colors are so spectacular!
Classic, antique, muscle & Hollywood car displays plus antique malls & burger bar with beer garden.
Such a great experience! There are approx 10 museums all with a different theme. Antique cars, cars from movies, Disney theme, music hall, tractors, war, vintage mobile homes, trains, and a torture/gangster museum. Something for everyone's interest. Easy to walk through everything in about 6 hours if you're looking in detail or faster if you're just breezing through. The coolest part was the vintage arcade games in the Disney part of the car museum. I also loved the music hall with all the self playing live band vintage music machines.
Bring $1 or $5 bills to get tokens for some of the interactive parts of the exhibits. There are machines to change out for tokens but the majority are cash only.
There is a little cafeteria with pizza etc at the start!
There is a path to follow but besides the car museum you go from building to building so you can break away if you don't want to do all the museums in one day.
Marie M — Google review
This place is awesome. They are open from 10am to 5pm, and there's plenty for the entire family to do. If you like antiques, the antique mall alone can take an entire day to go through. I didn't visit Jurassic Gardens this time but I spent pretty much open to close going through the entire museum and checking out some of the antique mall. There's games and an outdoor play area for the kids when the weather is warmer. There's some really cool movie cars on display and even snowmobile, boat, and bike exhibits. If you like military memorabilia they have a pretty well showcased section from various wars, there's a crime and punishment section that costs $2 extra and is well worth it. You'll get a lot of walking in so make sure to wear comfortable shoes. If you visit everything the museum offers you'll walk over 5 miles.
I was really impressed with the way the cars were displayed by theme / era. Staff is very friendly and helpful. It's a drive from where I live but I plan on making it a point to come here at least twice a year if not more.
Dan Heffernan — Google review
This is quite possibly one of the coolest museums ever! Having lived/visited the greater Chicago area since I was a little one, I've never heard of the Volo Museum until...maybe a handful of years ago, and was absolutely blown away by this experience!
The Volo Museum is dedicated to housing/maintaining classic cars, parade calliopes, old store displays, animatronics and more!
I have to make up new words to describe how awesome this place is, because anything I write doesn't feel like it would do it justice.
Pro-tip: I would recommend starting early so that you have enough time to visit and experience everything this museum has to offer. You can even pack a picnic and enjoy it in the picnic area.
Katy Z Dead — Google review
Went for birthday. I enjoyed the experience very much. Different care designs and growing up as a kid, I remember watching TV shows and liking the different cars. Brought back a lot of memories that is for sure. It is difficult to navigate through the 58 acre museum with not the best signs.
They have old school cars that are for sale as well. Overall, it was a great experience. They even have an antique mall which has many interesting treasure in there.
Kerry Anderson — Google review
It's a really cool museum for all! Even if you're not a car enthusiasts you'll still appreciate everything that the museum has to offer. My only issue was there's a strong smell when you get to the Disney/kids area I don't really know how to explain it but also if you have allergies I would recommend taking meds as the military section can be a little dusty. Overall, it was a good experience! You can also check out their shops where they carry a lot of vintage/antique trinkets.
Lea Brecel Limon — Google review
Went on a Friday around noon and had the best time! I had no idea they had Showbiz Pizza animatronics, definitely gave off nostalgia. The restaurant is very cool with hanging lamps, bikes, movie memorabilia and more! The food available is pizza slices, hot dogs, chips, nachos, drinks and Mac n cheese. The women behind the counter were so awesome! There is also a gift shop selling desserts and ice cream. We did the Jurassic World and Auto Museum since we have kids of all ages. I was able to bring my stroller through. We loved all of the cars, scenes and displays. We ended up spending 4 hours there without even realizing it. Then the kids enjoyed the playground when we were done with all of the showrooms. We will definitely be back.
Helen Chancy — Google review
Such beautiful cars here. Plenty to do and see, definitely an all day trip. Only thing I wish was better is the flow of the buildings. There aren't to many signs directing you where you need to go in the beginning. Other than that it was a great experience. If you love cars and history this is the place for you. Lots to keep kids entertained too. Parking was free, they have some food and drinks on the premises. Oh and if you want to visit the antique shops, go there first. They close earlier than Volo. We did not know that and missed the chance to look around. I would highly recommend visiting.
Angela Morajka — Google review
An absolute must see! Everything is laid out so nicely and the collections are amazing. We spent 2+ hours here and didn’t do the titanic or Jurassic park exhibits. Make the time to go see this place, it’s totally worth it!
Mark Jacobsma — Google review
The museum was pretty massive. There are different kinds of tickets. We did the combo with the Volo museum and Jurassic gardens for $35. The Volo museum by itself has a lot to see so you can easily spend a few hours with that. You will see many classic cars as well as cars from movies. Jurassic gardens is a lot smaller and kids will enjoy that. We spent like 15-20 mins in there. It’s worth checking out.
Nicholas P — Google review
Lovely place with endless things to see and do! Great for all ages. The antique section really took me by surprise, and the museum itself had many exhibits! You can easily spend a few hours here. I highly recommend walking through it a few times because there may be some hidden gems you missed!!
Julia Dores — Google review
A little expensive for such an exhibition, but my son really liked it. Hot dog for 10$ also seemed overpriced, but the restored animatronic stage show smoothed the price a bit.
Fun place for kids!
Elina Zhuravleva — Google review
A trip to the Volo museum was well worth the hike from the city. This is an attraction for all ages. Whether you a car enthusiast or a kid who wants to see the cars featured in popular movies and Disney displays. They have old cars restored cards, bikes, mopeds, pedal cars, snow mobiles, vaudeville puppet shows, Disney figurine makers, the ninja turtle pizza van, the terminator car, Johnny cash guitar car, the Barbie cars, all in various showrooms for you to walk through. Ending in an old decorated styled pizza parlor. They’ve put so much thought into every detail!
Alex Almazan — Google review
Very good museum for any car enthusiast, from timeless classics to famous movie cars to Tow Mater and Lightning McQueen, beyond even to brand new Corvettes and even Ralph Lauren's personal Lamborghini Countach the Volo Auto Museum has many sights to behold, one of my personal favorites was this 1923 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud II which I have attached a picture of. If you're a car enthusiast, movie nut, or just looking for something fun to do on a weekend the Volo Museum is a great option. The food served in the restaurant is also phenomenal. Great experience, cool cars, and friendly staff. I cannot recommend this place enough.
FinntheGamer42 — Google review
Took hubby here for his birthday. He loved it because he luvs cars. He wants to come back and me too. The dinosaurs were awesome ❤❤❤
Joanette Jackson — Google review
Went to the Volo Museum on a Saturday. Line moved quickly especially if you know what you want to do.
Volo Museum (fun for all ages) Jurassic Gardens (geared towards kids), and Titanic - A Tribute to Tragedy (artifacts, and replicas from history) are the three passes to choose from. Combo passes are a available and discounts for each additional activity admission.
There is a pizzeria, ice cream / coffee parlor and gift shop. The food available included pizza slices, hot dogs, chips, nachos, drinks, and desserts.
In their eating area there is a vintage Pirate Stage Show animatronic that reminds me of the old school Chuck E. Cheese entertainment from the 80’s/90’s.
There are also a variety of collectibles hanging from the ceilings of the restaurant.
Overall, it was a great experience, and I spent many hours looking at the movie, modern, and classic cars. Majority of the cars on display are available for sale. (Beautiful cars but all out my price range. 😂)
Before leaving, I stopped by the antique barn, where they have a variety of items on display from various vendors for sale.
L McGrew — Google review
OMG!! I was expecting a small car collection! These guys have hundreds of cars, plus military collection, tractors, vintage RV trailers, scooters, trains, airplanes, and yes even the "Family Vacation" car! Took over 3 hours and we didn't see everything. Highly recommend!! Also they have separate Jurassic Park and Titanic displays. AMAZING!
v111pilot V — Google review
This place is so cool! I loved everything and every section in the Volo Museum. I wish we had time to do the Jurassic Park part which is a separate museum section and u pay a fee as well there. They also have the Titanic part which they recommend older kids so we didn’t go to that section either, they also have a fee in that museum. But we were happy with just the Volo part, it was huge and so many different cars. They have very old model cars to cars used in Hollywood movies. I need to come back because we got there 2 hours before closing and we could of used more time but overall was so fun. They also have something in the Jurassic part for kids with sensory needs on specific Sundays I believe it’s every 3rd Sunday of the Month. I would double check and call in for the dates and times. Overall amazing place.
Tiffany Trncic — Google review
We did the tour of just the museum, and that was plenty to keep us busy. They had a lot of cars, of course. I enjoyed the old rv section. That was super cool. Also, all of the music boxes. U can spend an e tire day walking around here.
Beth Ervin — Google review
This place is pricey but fun for all ages. Unfortunately all the different attractions are separate (Cars, Dinosaurs , Titanic)
So, if you are on a budget, or have a large family, it really adds up. That being said, it has some pretty cool stuff.
Lisa Le — Google review
This place is AMAZING!!! Great for people of all ages. They have an extensive super cool car collection, Disney theme displays, A Titanic exhibit, a military exhibit, a dinosaur exhibit, and even a torture exhibit! There is a little bit of everything and lots to see. Some exhibits are building to building so you do some outside walking but not much.
They also have coffee, liquor and a cute pizza diner.
Priscilla Gonzalez — Google review
Went on a school trip. This was a great experience with a lot to see and do. Staff was so very helpful and students were engaged
Every time we turned the corner I heard "ohh that's so cool" or "take my picture." Our kids are still talking about it. They were very positive and excited about their experience.This was fantastic! I would recommend this to everyone!! We are for sure going again!
The Stork Got Lost — Google review
That place was amazing. It has so much to see. It had a lot of cool stuff it's not just car museum. If you're in the area, I would recommend going and checking it out.
CBU — Google review
I went to the museum with my older sister, 12, 10,9 and 5 year old kids. The museum overall was super cool. Tons to look at and see. We got the museum, Jurassic and Titanic. When we finally got to the Titanic, we thought we missed something. For the extra money they charged, we thought we’d see parts of the ship, other artifacts, etc. it was literally a room that took 5 minutes to get through and mainly clothes and dishes were displayed. I would not recommend this exhibit for the ridiculous extra they’re charging for. I would not recommend bringing emotional, younger children, as she couldn’t get through the first minute because of the sad depressing music and sad stories about the passengers passing on the Titanic.
Also, the carousel only runs on weekends, so the kids didn’t get to participate in that feature.
Classic urban park offering a playground, ice rink, trails, horseshoe pit & a paddle boat pier.
A beautiful park area to bring kids, pets and just relax or have a picnic. Perfect place for a rejuvenating walk on the track along the water body.
Open from sunrise to midnight and no entry fees. Has some workshops and stalls set up for Christmas near the Riverwalk cafe.
Easy parking access.
Was there at night time but would love visiting this place again during the day.
Ek Roohi Kaur Advani — Google review
This park is located in a very nice neighborhood. The view is beautiful similar to Chicago river walk, but way smaller. There are nice places to sit and enjoy.
Jagan Gnanasambandam — Google review
Beautiful space to enjoy nature, animals, and just relax. It is refreshing to get away and be outside. We got to see a snake in the water, a squirrel, fish and some cool rocks. Highly recommend!
Linda Kilmer — Google review
Explored the Riverwalk Park while passing through the area. It is a beautiful area that is family friendly and well maintained. The river itself is beautiful and peaceful. The river walk runs on both sides of the river and connects to the downtown area of Naperville. Highly recommended if you are in the area.
Shane Johnson — Google review
Naperville Riverwalk is a gem. Nice place to hang out! Ships are all around for food; history is there; great aura for the whole family
Kanwal Chawla — Google review
Clean and well-kept Riverwalk and park area. Love how close you can walk along the clear, calm DuPage River but definitely need to be careful not to tip over into the river itself. Nice seating areas as well for both people watching as well as listening to bells played by the Millennium Carillon/Moser Tower. Beautiful landscape, trees, and ducks. Plenty of folks walking and enjoying the scenery as well as sights of professional photo-ops of folks for special occasions.
Katrina Marie N-A — Google review
The perfect place to spend an afternoon in. My friend and I had a small picnic and found a table by the playground. We then explored the many things this place offers such as the Centennial beach, restaurants, Millenium Carillon tower, skate park, baseball field, and a beautiful well maintained hiking trail. Lots of people but not crowded. No wonder it is recognized as one of the most beautiful spots in the Midwest,
Glenn Bermejo — Google review
Nice park to walk around. Lots of families and other people there enjoying the park. There was a street musician playing jazz. An interesting part was the narrow path by the river. It can be fairly wide but can also be quite narrow where it allows only 1 person to walk around. The riverwalk is quite long and goes from the park to downtown. You can catch a glimpse of some ducks or other fowl flying under the bridge sometimes. Great for a fall or spring walk.
Clam — Google review
I had a beautiful day with my family here and you can too. Tons of free stuff to do, live entertainment, and most of the people walking around are in a good mood and friendly. I brought my bird and she loved it. There are a lot of summer activities, and tons of nearby shops and restaurants to visit. I definitely recommend this place.
Zim Zeisler — Google review
Beautiful place to roam around and take a romantic walk. The river is beautiful, and the water is clear with birds, ducks, and cranes. The path along the river was very clean. It's a little hidden gem.
Binu John — Google review
It’s not as extensive as San Antonio’s but it’s a nice and enjoyable riverwalk. It has 2 paths and I wish the path by the river was not too narrow in some places. We also enjoyed the covered bridges, pavilions, and the restaurants nearby. Considering twigs and natural debris in the water, the park was well maintained overall.
Lalaine T — Google review
Very beautiful. A nice weekend gate away it is. You can opt for kayaking and boating over there. The price is 12$ per boat and 4 persons can sit on a single boat. There is an artificial beach but we didn't go there as we had no bathing suit.
Deboshree Dey — Google review
Good walk place full of green environment. Meditative with green river Bridged over by heavy wooden bridges.
The River Walk Cafe is located here also with amazing relaxing environment (see my separate review on that).
Naperville generally provides excellent family atmosphere and great for kids as well. This river walk is very much part of the attraction that makes the city stands out. Definitely worth revisiting.
Samuel Stephen — Google review
Dog friendly. Great scenery for walk. Quiet with paths near river. Lots of interactive spots and opportunities for adventures. Welcome center, info booths and Millennium Carillon nearby. Can paddleboat here.
Driven — Google review
Love, love, love this place. It's my favorite place to go when I want to be close to the river. I've even done a few photo shoots over there! Love bringing my dog as well to walk around. You get a mix of everything one way is the park for kiddos then a path that loops around a forest area or the other way after you pass the beach you get a taste of downtown Naperville and the river.
Starved Rock State Park, an area of historical significance, boasts canyons, trails and waterways suitable for hiking, fishing and boating. The park offers a lodge and cabins for visitors to stay in. One of the main attractions is the Starved Rock itself which is easily accessible via a short trek. There are numerous paths meandering through cliffs and rivers that provide scenic views throughout the park.
Starved Rock State Park is an excellent place to hike. The actual starved rock is a very cool place to look around and it is not a very hard or long path. There are plenty of good hiking paths that go throughout the cliffs and rivers. The restaurant and conference center are a good place to rest and have great views. The restaurant’s food is not exceptional but it is pretty good. The nachos are very good.
Starved Rock State Park is a unique state park and one of my favorites.
Christian Tong — Google review
This is a good park. However, the visitor center and trails nearby can be very busy on weekends. We had to park in overflow parking and hike in.
We had much better luck heading east to the other parking lots away from the main area.
Huge rock formations and tons of places to explore. My kids loved it but we saw many frustrated parents trying to us a stroller. If you have someone to lift a stroller up and down stairs, it won’t be bad but overall the park is NOT stroller friendly.
Beautiful bluff and great photo ops.
There are lots of little places where the trail is not clearly my defined and you can go exploring a little.
The staff was great and all the facilities were clean. There is nice restaurant and lodge if you need a bite to eat or place to rest.
Sailor Traub — Google review
What an amazing place to hike! The canopy keeps it very cool. I came early (6:45am) on a week day and did not see anyone until after 9am. Very cool to see the different Canyons and elevations along the hike. The stairs are no joke! It’s a moderate hike but lots of cool stops to see along the way, including waterfalls!
Lisa Meminger — Google review
What an incredible and beautiful state park! Might be the prettiest place I’ve been to in Illinois, it’s such a nice break from the city and it’s not a super far drive. The trails are very easy and beginner friendly, there are some steep staircases and a few uneven parts of path but mostly flat trails. I will say that if you are expecting to see waterfalls, you should go 1-2 days after a big rain storm otherwise they’ll probably all be dry, especially during the middle of the summer. I also recommend going early, even if it’s on a weekday. We got there at about 10:30 and it wasn’t super busy, but by the time we got back from hiking around 1:30 it was insanely crowded, and hiking is a lot more fun in my opinion when it’s empty. Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting here on a day trip, I can’t wait to return myself!!
Robbie Austin — Google review
We arrived early and saw St. Louis Canyon before the crowds arrived. We had lunch in the visitor center, which was decent. After lunch we started out to see the eastern part of the trails.
The trails were very well marked and maintained. We covered west as far as St. Louis Canyon and east as far as Wildcat Canyon in about 18,000 steps on our step counter. There are a lot of stairs! The canyons are well worth the hike. We would like to return in the Spring when the falls are at their fullest.
Pam M — Google review
awesome!! the hike was very pretty. althought i don’t recommend going when its raining/was. it gets slippery and you have to take different parts of the trail to get around. especially the french canyon! hard hike but gorgeous. the lovers leap i think it was ? ; was also a very pretty view. wildcat is muddy but so pretty!
chxcolqte — Google review
STARVED ROCK STATE PARK is an Illinois hidden treasure. Camping was quiet and clean. However there was rain a few days prior and a few of the sites had water covering half the site.. was a nuisance for a few. So the park is alcohol free zone FYI! Be creams keep things quiet and you should be fine. Showers are good for a state park $25 a night fee with electric hook up. Thee are a both open and wooded sites. The trails are clean and marked fairly well. Be aware that there are many steep stairs to get to lookouts and canyons. Many only make it halfway. Bring plenty of water. We will return as it’s a quick 2hr trip.
Tim Stotler — Google review
Wonderful place, we have been seeing signs for this place for years and finally got to come and see it. The ice was just melting and it was a little muddy but man what a great place. Good walk ways great views of waterfalls and a historic place. This place has it all. Even the girl in gift shop was helpful.
Ryan — Google review
We visited Starved Rock December 10 2022. We stayed at Getaway which is about 20 min away for the weekend. Overall, our experience at this state park was excellent. The trails are well maintained even in the late fall. We hiked for about 4 miles seeing the river views and the canyon views over about 2.5 hours. It is difficult to navigate a stroller/wheelchair along most of the trails in this state park so I recommend getting information ahead of time if you need accessibility. The features and varied topography were amazing; we will definitely return here again. About half of the hike we took was along a wooden or paved path. There are a lot of stairs, many more than they explain. Be prepared to go up and own more than 9 flights over the course of your hike. We had mild weather at about 40 degrees overcast with little wind. Its a great time of year to hike if you don't mind cold weather!
Leah Sorensen — Google review
It is very peopley here. I did go on a weekend and expected it to be more populated but WOW. It’s not a holiday weekend thing, this is a popular place and local attraction that tons of people in the Midwest come to see (some even further) Either way, if you can stand bumping elbows every now and then it’s not too bad. It is very pretty. There are a lot of stairs on some of the trails. Definitely bring some water!!
Alexis Beran — Google review
I have a special fondness for this state park as it's a great place for outdoor activities. During our visit, we trekked for 3 hours, exploring both the Wildcat Canyon and the La Salle Canyon. Although there aren't any waterfalls in the summer, the hike remains incredibly enjoyable.
Justin Zhang — Google review
Great hike! It has quite a few stairs on different trails, but we had lots of fun. The visitor center has a nice food court, and you can get ice cream too. The camping ground is great! We stayed in a shaded camp, great for keeping it cool during the warm days. Great place for star gazing of you stay in the no shade campsites.
Fernanda Duque — Google review
I have lived in Illinois since 2007 and wanted to visit Starved Rock so bad. November 19,23 is the first time I have had the pleasure of visiting and I was so glad I did. It was a wonderful time. There's lots of stairs so bring water and even a snack. There's a gift shop with super cute items in it. I want to go back because it was such a great time.
Alexis Gaul — Google review
I’ve been to this place since I was very young. Starved Rock Lodge has had a special place in my life for most of my life. What I love about it is that unlike most things today, it still has it’s traditional, classic, and old school feel. It seems like one of the very few things that’s being preserved and rightly so. Most of the times I go on vacation there, my experience is generally quite positive. The staff are usually friendly and considerate. It has good fishing along the Illinois river despite the river’s pollution. The nature is also beautiful. The place itself is proof that Illinois is more than just Chicago and flat farmlands. I also always enjoy the pool and hot tub there too. No place is perfect but this is my way of trying to spread some positivity in a world of seemingly endless negativity. Thank you Starved Rock State Park for all of the joy you bring to people who enjoy visiting and thank you staff for your hard work and support. Hope you all can appreciate my new drawing.
Liam Crawford — Google review
Highly Recommend: very pretty, I think French canyon was the prettiest. I would recommend seeing all except walking the bluff trail between owl canyon and Ottawa - the trail is through forest and pretty boring, not much to see just treading along. I'd recommend just hiking to owl canyon and back and then driving and parking by Illinois or Ottawa canyon.
S. D. — Google review
Nice big park. Trails for hiking an a big waterfront for fishing or watching the boats. There was a picnic area an boat dock just down from the visitor center area. Port a John's there for when the center isn't open. We did the st Louis canyon trail.. beautiful spot. We saw cliff swallows flying around the top of the canyon. That was neat!!
S Hoover — Google review
Tremendous park and trails, amazing campground facility as well five minutes up the road. We hiked four of the trails and loved the clean landscape, variations in altitude, and river and woodland views.
Staff are attentive and care greatly for the park.
The campground is amazingly clean and quiet. Bathrooms are typical camp baths.
A really fun weekend for the family with plenty of fresh air and exercise.
Jonathan Johnson — Google review
What a great state park to hike around and explore. The visitors center was clean and inviting. There is a little place to grab some treats and food called the trailhead.
There had been little rainfall around the time we were there so sadly the waterfalls were not flowing 😞 the trails were well marked and the YOU ARE HERE maps were placed all over.
Definitely a state park to add to your bucket list!
Denai C — Google review
Beautiful scenery in the state park along with decently maintained trails. In some parts there have been a few steps sticking out in odd places where rain has washed it away. Besides that, it is a very well maintained park. I easily spend 2-3 hours here. It’s a huge park to explore!
Brianna Cosgrove — Google review
Beautiful park to see the fall colors. Lots of hiking trail, the trail to LaSalle canyon has beautiful fall colors, restrooms are clean. Parking is easy during early hours, trail gets crowded later during the day. Would recommend.
Samruddhi Kapileshwar — Google review
We went when the waterfalls were dry so I was kind of disappointed but still had a good time. Spent over 3 hours walking the trails and enjoying the sites of nature. Very beautiful park. Loved the canyons and the views of the dam. Will definitely be back when waterfall season hits up again.
T. R. Justus — Google review
Starved Rock is a great state park for visitors to check out. It has pretty easy hiking so it's great for kids. Parking can be difficult sometimes in the summer as it's a popular place. It can also get a little crowded at certain times. My kids really like going and it's easy to let them wander because the paths are mainly boardwalks with railings and/or easy to follow. This park is dog friendly and, as all State Parks in Illinois, has a leash law. There are also cabins that you can rent and a hotel with a restaurant and pool. The fudge in the gift shop is a must. This is a great place for family photos and wedding photos. Have fun.
bob qualkinbush — Google review
Beautiful place to bring kids and family. This place is a challenging hike that will push the inner athlete in you. Even though it's beautiful, don't underestimate this park at all not for the faint of heart.
Manuel Arevalo — Google review
Located about an hour and half away from Chicago. This is a good place for hiking. In the spring and summer you’ll be able to see waterfalls up close. If you come in the winter, you’ll see like a winter wonderland because some of the waterfalls will be frozen and covered in snow. They have paved paths which makes things easier. Adequate amount of parking. You can pack a lunch and sit in the main picnic area. There is a visitor center with restrooms.
Nicholas P — Google review
Was a blast! The amazing rock structures are a view to look at! It was a little crowded but it was expected with how beautiful the weather has been. Remember to wear comfy shoes, lots of stairs and ups and down hills! Some of the steps are trick due to the condition, so be careful and take your time! If you're in the area, The Rootbeer Stand is up the road for a quick bite and a throwback feel!
Ryan — Google review
This is a great place to go for an extended hiking experience. The trails are very well marked and maintained. The historical aspect of Starved Rock is acknowledged and celebrated.
We had lunch in the Back Door Grill. The veggie burger was excellent and the turkey blt wrap was very good too.
Nick Mahan — Google review
Came here on Thursday to this lovely outdoor hiking spot with a group of friends 🧡. We greatly enjoyed ourselves and enjoyed being outside. Just a warning ⚠️ If you are thinking of coming here, please come prepared. Make sure to bring enough water/snacks or food and whatever else you may need. Also, if you do not enjoy coming upstairs, be warned that there are a lot of stairs. Other than those minor things to let you all know about , I had an amazing time and will be coming back here soon.
Seilah Feliciano — Google review
Went on a rainy day, it was pouring. Really nice waterfall. Especially visit the Wildcat Canyon.
Try to see all the Canyons and the Eagle’s Point. The dam is nice to observe from the Eagle’s point. Would like to visit again in summer to see how it is different. Nice to hike at. Some spots have a nice riverview. The lodge is very pretty with a bar, fireplace and serves food. There are one or two stores that sell souvenirs and gems/jewellery and collective items. Free entry to the park and free parking.
Amrita Mohini — Google review
Always packed and crowded on the weekends for hiking, but you'll still find moments to yourself. A nice scenic hike that's close to Chicago, yet remote. Trails are clearly labeled, and maps are accurate. Decent fishing off the dam, and friendly staff. Trails seem well maintained.
Nicholas Nocek — Google review
Did a 8 mile hike here in March and still the scenery was beautiful. For a moment its almost as if your no longer in the Midwest at all! All in all if your looking for beautiful scenery and a great workout Starved Rock is the place for you!
Connor Lundborg — Google review
Starved Rock has a great visitor center. As you can see from the pictures, I shared that there are quite a few informative displays. Showing great details on what you can find around the state park. Plus, they have a great volunteer book store with a lot of great nature books. The best thing is that the proceeds go to support the various educational experiences they offer. They also have a gift shop with a wonderful selection of Starved Rock souvenirs. You will also find an ice cream/fudge shop that serves homemade sweets.
Gina Turek — Google review
Nice place to hike! 13 miles altogether on the hiking trails. Went after a slight snow and it was beautiful! Lots of wooded paths. Very well marked and maps. Nice visitor center with restrooms and refreshments. Waterfall is super cool. Several lookout points overlooking the IL river and lock/dam. Dogs welcome! Everyone here was very friendly. Second time hiking here and will return again!
Brian J. — Google review
One of my favorite places in Illinois to visit. Breathtaking views and beautiful waterfalls if you’re lucky enough to spot one. I love the quaint little town and its friendly people there.
Erica Stromberg — Google review
Beautiful hike, we didn't park in the main parking. It was to crowded but found a spot down the road. We hike the whole thing in one full day. Got there befor 10 am and out by 530 pm. We enjoyed out hike!
Shellie Anders — Google review
This was my family's first visit to the park. I suggest going early in the morning to avoid crowds. Visitors from many nationalities were present, and nearly every family had a dog. The park has many stairs, so be prepared for some climbing. I recommend bringing a bag with water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Some areas can be slippery, so exercise caution. There are insufficient seating options for those who need them. I suggest adding a handicapped section along the trails with seating. I hiked the Pontiac and Wildcat Canyon trails, which took approximately two hours and covered almost three miles.
Harrah's Joliet is a riverfront casino hotel that offers various dining options, a bar, and live music. It is conveniently located near the train station, making it an ideal choice for travelers. The rooms have deep tubs suitable for soaking and provide guests with a comfortable night's rest. However, additional fees of around $20+ are added to the room rates, which may not be favorable to some.
This is a very quiet, discreet hotel where the beds are clean and comfortable. An ideal location when you need to spend the night somewhere that resembles the comfort of home. The addition of the casino is an extra perk that brings late night food options and a little bit of fun gaming before heading for bed, so it's a great location! Will definitely choose again in the future.
Mario E — Google review
I stayed here primarily because it's the closest hotel to the train station. The tub was deep enough that I could soak (I'm 5'10"). I had great nights rest. I wasn't too happy about some of the extra fees they add to your room (~$20+). So add $20 to whatever price you see advertised. I'm not a gambler so I didn't enter the casino.
DeMarco Davidson — Google review
After being a frequent guest (DIAMOND ELITE LEVEL) at this casino and hotel for more than 2 decades. I really have to re-think going back. I was there on Sunday night and had a horribly embarrassing and humiliating experience at the main casino bar. I approached the bar for a Heineken. Next to me at the bar was a cocktail server. She called out her order to the bartender and then asked him "did you take a $20 from the bar"? "I'm pretty sure I put a $20 down on the bar". The bartender, Marc, looked her in the face and said "No" The cocktail server looked at me and there I was standing with a $20 in my hand. She looked at me again and again. Then, the other bartender with dark hair leaned-in toward the cocktail server and said "do you want me to call surveillance"? She again looked me over and then said "Yes" So...now I know that she thinks the $20 in my hand was stolen from her. People sitting at the bar were looking on as I said to her: "Do you really think I took your money"? She said "Oh, no...I didn't think that" I was the only one within reach of her money with the exception of the bartender that emphatically denied taking it. Surveillance informed them that the bartender, Marc, that said he didn't take it off the bar...did INDEED take it off the bar. Is he very forgetful or a liar that steals money? CLEARLY, the server thought I took her money and others sitting at the bar watch intently at the drama. I was mortified and humiliated beyond measure. i informed my casino host via text of the incident and he apologized and said his boss was informed. I half-expected a call, email or text from someone at Harrah's, but it seems they're perfectly content to have pretend nothing too bad happened. They could have asked for a review from surveillance without the implied accusation that I was a thief and spared me the embarrassment and humiliation. It's not likely I will return to Harrah's or other Caesar's properties. There are too many choices to return where I'm treated so poorly.
Gerard McGuiggan — Google review
Easy in and easy out. Rooms were large and very nice, no smoke smell. Service is excellent at the front desk. Game floor was not crowded and plenty of table games. My $69 room cost me $150.....dang marketing and betting losses! It was worth it, I'll be back.
H.R. Cook — Google review
The pros are that every staff member was very kind and helpful in the casino and hotel. Our room was pretty big and mostly clean. The bathtub was massive and water pressure was excellent and hot. The sundries shop at the front desk had a wide variety of items you may have forgotten. Lots of affordable restaurants within walking distance of the hotel and parking was simple. When we came in at 10pm to retire for the evening, the lobby smelled like fresh pizza. The cons are that our room's previous occupant left their used coffee bag in the machine and a half pot of stinky burned coffee. Some how, house keeping missed that. There are soap dispensers in the shower for shampoo and body wash but they were topped off with water to appear more full, so they hardly made any suds. Every pop machine we encountered was broken and the ice machine on our floor was not working. Your key card won't allow you to take the elevator to any other floor so we couldn't try other ice machines. And you should expect some late night intoxicated folks on the weekends, hollering in the hallway and waking you up if you turn in early. Overall decent experience.
IH Rivera — Google review
Nice place, but Way too noisy. Clean, employees polite, helpful, and cheerful. Food is good in all eating areas. Matresses could be nicer quality. Will go again.
Beth E. Luciano — Google review
The staff was very friendly and attentive, from the casino floor to security to the hotel staff. We got a non-smoking King room and the room was spotless...very clean! The bathroom had a hairdryer that worked!!! The tub was massive... definitely room for 2! Private toilet room, soap/body wash provided, and plenty of towels.
The casino gave some, took some away, and then let us walk away with some. New and (best of all) old school slots, a nice variety of dollar, quarter, and penny slots. The tables were open, and there was room to sit at anyone you wanted to.
There is a little cafe serving good sandwiches and Starbucks. 2 bar areas w/staff pouring cold beer and stiff drinks.
This was our 2nd stay here and we'll be back!
Mark Hodson — Google review
Front desk concierage when we checked in was the least helpful man ever. We asked about Valet parking which they no longer have. I then had to pull teeth to figure out where to park. Room is spacious, and very warm. Air conditioning has one setting and DOES not work. Bedding. Pillows are lumpy, sheets are scratchy. I could hear them crinkle us. For 250 a night, complete rip off.
Veronica Allyson Miller — Google review
Stayed here for a show at the Rialto Theater. It was a quick two block walk to the show. The room was a king, and was very spacious. It was also quiet given the street and river traffic out the window. The best the best thing was the bathroom. The tub was huge, great water pressure, and a lot of hot water. The stool was closed off in its own separate. We did pay $15 for early check in, as we showed up around 2:00 pm and check in is at 4:00 pm
Shawn Artis — Google review
What happened to this casino??!! It's dead up in here feels like being at a bingo hall... You guys have to do something else to bring the excitement back here once again or just shut this place down. Too big of wasted space for this cemetery they want to call a casino
MR. Marcus — Google review
The price of a 5 star hotel with the experience of a hostel. All night we could hear the next room over. No amenities, no breakfast, no pool, no coffee. Forget your toothbrush? They will sell you one for $6
Tim Galos — Google review
Gambling is what it is...a risk you take; but at least LIVEN this place up!!! Compared to Rivers this place feels like work, not as bad as Hollywood but very close. Pump some good music through the place, get the crowd jumping, have more fiery give aways, be more creative! Joliet should be a place people from Chicago and Indiana should want to take a drive to; a fun hot spot! More winning not a repast.
Renaldo Bogan — Google review
Some rooms need updating (ours didn't this time), coffee pots need deep cleaning or how 'bout replacing them. Very comfortable couch and bed, we had a great night sleep. Brought beers, vodka, bloody mary mix for a great morning 😉 watching football games in our room is fun when you come prepared as we did. Our munchies include chips crackers cheese and spanish style antipasto 😋 Have fun and enjoy your stay!!
anita a — Google review
Phenomenal Management. Willy is one of the rare gems in this world. The way he handled my reservation error was accommodating when I needed it. Rochelle was also very attentive and welcoming. I couldn’t be more thrilled with my stay and the service of the staff
J Cole — Google review
I enjoy the location here. It was my first time. Pizza is good. The casino floor is open in new slots. Parking free across the street. The room was nice. Spacious, and the air conditioning was super cold. Bed was comfortable as well. The best thing about my experience was the front desk supervisor, Tanya. She was absolutely a sweetheart and caring exceptional customer service. She is very knowledgeable and she was very helpful at everything. She is a rare worker these days. She should be promoted, and her skillset and passion for her job would add great value for her organization. Just the overall customer service level. I was going to 4 star rate. I'm a very honest reviewer, but my interactions with her she went above and beyond, so it's 5 stars across the board!!!! Fantastic
Rustan Porter — Google review
Very clean casino. Have stayed at the hotel a few times and the rooms are NEVER that clean. Last time there was toiletries left from the previous guests with opened coffee bags. This time, there was dried up toothpaste in the sink and hairs in the shower. Luckily we were only there for 1 night so I waited to shower when I got home to my clean shower. Don't really recommend the hotel AT ALL but the casino is great and very clean.
Lisa Moxley — Google review
Dated hotel with a casino attached. Our room was nice and very open. Lots of space. I looked at past reviews to note the regular rooms were not great, so I upgraded to the premium 'river view' room.
Like I stated, the room was nice. The view was OK. Yes we saw the river but we also had a great look at the pawn shop next door. Hmmmm....
We did not eat at this location.
It was within walking distance to the Forge.
I wasn't very happy with the service. All 4 handicapped spots were taken and we were told to park across the street. Very convenient for a handicapped with luggage.
Jeff — Google review
We attended a Holiday party here for my husband's workplace get together. The Italian food was pretty good for being banquet style and at a Casino.
Laura Murphy — Google review
I didn’t stay at the hotel but I come with my boyfriend and some of my friends all the time I’m not much of a gambler but I like to go to the smoke room that they have, or sit by the bar to have a couple of drinks. The older bartender Nancy is not very nice but Jennifer is sooooooo sweet and super cute I hope next time I come back she’s here and can serve me again. Good luck everybody!!!
Demaris Walker — Google review
Heather, the casino cage supervisor was extremely rude for an issue that was not my fault. She raised her voice and was extremely hostile. The issue was not resolved after speaking with the "casino manager ". I am diamond rewards tier and regardless, I expected a better experience.
Joe Palmer — Google review
It's so sad how they treat my husband because my husband has a Defibrillator/pacemaker and was scared to go through metal detectors and told them he had no problem with them hand searching him, they refuse to let him in unless he went through the metal detectors.. I highly recommend if somebody has this kind of disability and is scared to go through metal detectors. I would go to Bally's in Chicago At least they will hand search you and treat you like a guest and not a inconvenience and tell you to leave
Rhonda Kurylowicz — Google review
Slots games are of the sort found in many other nice casinos, you just need bubble craps, and another table. Crowded tables that money people can't get to helps no one.
Donny Dew — Google review
Terrible, terrible experience. While we were sleeping in our room, we were woken up at 1am by the people who were staying next to us. They were arguing, screaming, and slamming doors continually. This continued on for almost 1.5 hours. In this time, we called down to the front desk asking for security to manage the situation. This just kept continuing and we decided at 2am that we would just go home. We couldn’t sleep with all the screaming and slamming doors. When we went down to the front desk to check out, the woman said that security didn’t get a chance to make it up to the floor to handle the situation. So we paid to stay the night in the hotel and only got to sleep for 2 hours… The staff didn’t seem to care at all.
DO NOT RECOMMEND.
Darbi Ahlf — Google review
The Reserve Steakhouse has a nice selection of appetizers and entrees. We have enjoyed everything we have had there.
The casino has slots, video poker, table games.
The Caterpillar Visitors Center offers interactive exhibits showcasing the company's history and powerful machines, including diggers, tractors, and trucks from vintage to modern. The exhibition center is staffed by friendly individuals who are knowledgeable about CAT. Their dedication extends to teaching young children how to operate simulation machines and vehicles. Expert testimonials have described the museum as awesome. Recommended for those interested in learning more about this monster machine company.
Awesome experience to learn this monster machine company. My father in law worked for caterpillar for over 35 years. We know it is an awesome and powerful company that he’s always been proud to work for. The exhibition center is very nice, we learned a lot of things about CAT and the staffs here are very nice and friendly.
LULU . LIVE — Google review
Okay, so I mostly went here for my boys, ages 3 and 6 years, but ended up entertaining not only myself, but my 10 and 8 year old girls. We got to climb into actual Caterpillar machinery, learn about engines and saw a few of their best marketing campaigns. We enjoyed ourselves.
Nikol Richards — Google review
this place has a cool exhibit, lots of interesting history displayed, and very knowledgeable and kind staff. Norbert, one of the retired CAT employees, was very knowledge in the field and was more than willing to go the extra steps to help us learn about the history of CAT and how it became the company it is today. if we ever were in town again, we would 100% come back and plan of recommending this place to others!
Grace Kouba — Google review
Friday; expert testimonial. Bash proclaims Cat Museum "Awesome"!
Saturday; "Grampa, I have a idea... We can go back to the museum."
Doane Brubaker — Google review
A great place to visit if you’re interested in the history of Caterpillar. There are many things too see but the only thing that will catch your eyes is the big mining truck. There are some pretty cool simulators which you can sit on and try using the different controls. The employees working here are retired Cat employees. I was assisted by Skip and Rose. Had a great conversation with both of them. Very kind , sweet and knowledgeable. Thank you.
Karan Pai — Google review
It's great fun for boys ages 1 to 62! This was a fun cousin memory. Kids under 12 are free, and adults are only $7, so it is a very cost-effective family activity.
Brianna Gullett — Google review
If you like to know about Caterpillar history it is a good place to visit. The tour starts with a video about the global footprints and the services the company is doing. When you go downstairs you can witness the 100 year old long history and the company's evolution.They showcased every possible product they produce and there are some simulators in which you can sit and operate, and you can feel the machine operation. There are some CAT merchandise available for sale upstairs.
Mahesh Kumar — Google review
Not only was this place awesome to see, but every single person that worked there was absolutely amazing! They even took the time to teach my young kids how to maneuver the simulation machines and the few vehicles that they could get in. Would definitely recommend going!!
Jenn G — Google review
Very well done and cool museum. After reading some reviews, thought it would be smaller than what it was, but thought it was overall a well done history of the company. Getting to see some equipment on display was fun and then the simulators were cool as well.
Shane Burgess — Google review
Lots of fun for the whole family! There are simulators to try, Cats to hop on and sit in, a seven room engineering museum type thing- and all of the employees are really nice too.
hodelia hayat — Google review
Truly enjoyed watching the bulky tractors and engines. Good place to visit with your family. The staff were so kind. But the clothes at the store were quite expensive.
saleha sultana — Google review
We saw a sign for this place on the highway and visited it on a whim. Street parking is available, which you can pay for easily by phone. It is 7 USD for adults and free for the kids. You enter the cargo area of their mining truck to watch a short video, then take the stairs to the display area. Very clever way to display and get people to appreciate the truck's size. The kids enjoyed the simulator, which lets you practice several pieces of equipment. Much better quality than those simulators you find in other places. I guess these were developed for actual training.
Jaehyup Kim — Google review
It is very cool to see the history of how it started from a small to large truck. The simulation is very great. There is a cinema in a big truck. This museum is worth your time.
Only one negative - there don't have to access to offer such subtitles (closed captioning). I hope they can provide them for deaf or people who are in need of it.
Kehinde Ogunbayo — Google review
You start the experience watching a movie in the back of a large mining truck. Then you continue on a self-guided tour of the history of CAT. Kids can climb into various CAT machines. There are interactive experiences to drive CAT bulldozers and excavators. We spent about an hour there.
Lindsey Nelson — Google review
I have swing by at the visitor center aiming to learn more about CAT history and legacy, in special regarding the entrepreneurship across the decades.
As supplier it was a honor.
Robertson Souza — Google review
It’s amazing to see the big trucks and know about the history. The simulation is great to try the machines and feel the action.
Very well maintained and very well designed with a lot of information
Sam A — Google review
We went right when it opened on a Thursday morning so it wasn't crowded at all . All of the workers are very knowledgeable and very friendly. They have lots of information about caterpillar and like sharing it .
Amazing to see the life like replica of the dump truck . It's huge
The simulators for the heavy equipment are cool as well .
Reconstruction of the village where Abraham Lincoln spent his young adulthood, with camping & more.
Lincoln's New Salem is a beautiful village were Abraham Lincoln started here career in a small community that led to his career in politics. The village consisted of beautilful Log Cabins. When he lived in New Salem he and a partner opened up a Store. I highly recommend visiting this village.
Ronald Wyatt — Google review
Unfortunately the day we visited it was raining a bunch, so I didn’t see much of the village outside. The museum and movie were great. So much great information about Abraham Lincoln starting in his early years and through out his life. I didn’t know that he only had 1 year of formal education, and that he basically taught himself how to read. I also did not know that he read a friend’s law books and then took the bar to become a lawyer. Completely amazing! I highly recommend this as a place to visit to learn about Lincoln.
Jan Bishop — Google review
Such a beautiful peaceful part of history. The grounds are well kept & the property as well. Plenty of free parking & not far from Springfield. It's a trip through the history of Abraham Lincoln and his arrival in New Salem. It's a must see if you're in the area !
Marcela Porras — Google review
It is March and I’m sure it’s great in the summer with actors, which is what you expect from a living history, without them it’s a waste for kids. I have two young boys who I’m trying to get interested in history. They were excited to come and bored in no time. There were a lot of buildings with locked doors and no one but me to answer their questions. I have limited time in Springfield and told the lady such but she insisted this would be well worth it anyway. It was not, at least if you are taking kids.
Sarah Hanneman — Google review
fun experience. the volunteers are very friendly and knowledgeable. be sure to check out the blacksmith and the various houses around. got to see some quilting and learn about medicine back then. the Lincoln artifacts were cool too
G Gordon Worley III — Google review
Nice campground that allows access to the Lincoln New Salem village. The sites are really close to each other.
Chad Osman (Ozman) — Google review
Amenities in main building are handicapped accessible and so are the indoor exhibits an separate gift shop. There are smooth kept up paths through the village. Buildings and furnishings are period like and interesting. I read A Team of Rivals just prior to my visit. This analysis of Lincoln made the visit mire interesting in that you see haw his early life made him the man who was a leader in difficult times with some of the best minds at the time. The exhibits are free, but donations are welcome. Closed Sun & Mon.
Deena Williams-Happel — Google review
A place for a good walk and good history. Viewing and experiencing where Abraham Lincoln developed into the man he became is awe inspiring. One can clearly see why we Americans have can-do attitudes and why we push ourselves forward regardless of the adversity. Great place to visit.
David Carrillo — Google review
Went to the village yesterday and drove to the river mill and entrance building this morning. To be honest I am sad to learn that Illinois has cut the budget. Many volunteers have gotten older and have decided since covid, to stay home. Illinois is going to lose a great piece of history if they continue to do nothing. Without the gardens and flowers and reenacting everything is gray and blah. The people are trying to take care of the park but it's a big job. Just sad!!! They say Wednesday and Friday are best days for the most reenactment volunteers.
Michell Lazov — Google review
I visited here in 1979 or 1980 and was so surprised to see a Visitor's Center now. That was the highlight of the day for me. When the reinactors are there, it will be good for outside activities.
Patricia Doerr — Google review
We stayed in site 59, directly across from the showers, flat, shady, but under a sweet gum tree that was dropping pods on the rv so that was noisy but not damaging.
Rural campground adjacent to New Salem Village. Nice trails to walk, access to Sangmon river for kayaking and fishing approx 1 mile. Campground has lots of flat, shady spots and keeps about a dozen sites unreservable and available for walk-ins which is unusual nowadays. There are very few amenities in the park. No campstore, pool, just one small pavilion and old -school playground. There is a tavern right across from the campground though! Shower house was kept clean each time we were there but since there was only half a dozen campers, not surprising! If you usually stay in rv parks and koa, you'll probably be disappointed. If you're like me and want calm, quite, close to nature, it will be perfect.
Judy Green — Google review
Our group came into the visitors center from the parking lot, and we asked about the tours. First, we watched the 17 min movie in the theater, then went outside to walk in and through the different buildings. They had actors dressed up that you could ask questions to about Abe Lincolns stay there. After that, we took a stroll back inside the visitors center to walk through the museum of Abe Lincolns time spent in New Salem.
You can do all of the activities for free. However, there is a suggested $4/ person donation. The parking is free. There is room for RV's to park in the parking lot. This self guided tour takes about 2-4 hours depending on how much you want to soak in.
Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather as you are walking outdoors mostly. I did see people with dogs and strollers. There is an air-conditioned visitors center with a small museum inside. They have bathrooms in the visitors center and about halfway through the cabins.
I would suggest bringing your own water and snacks.. Although there is a water fountain in the visitors center. They do have picnic tables and pavilions to eat at outdoors.
Nicole B. — Google review
We were in Illinois for a family reunion and driving past New Salem. We saw the sign and I told my husband that New Salem was one of my favorite places on the planet. He pulled in! He told me there was no way he could drive by after I said that! We were there for 47 minutes lol It was Sunday and nothing was open, there were no demonstrations or dressed up folks but it was prob’ly the most peaceful, quiet, perfect visit of my life. Love New Salem. The park is accessible and yet feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. It’s surprising there is not a restroom open at all times at the visitor center/entry area. The only downside of a wonderful visit.
Kelly Heimlich — Google review
A quiet walk through history while being educated. Visually appealing and at the same time showing son how much easier today is compared to the past. Friendly staff and loved the history and walk through time. Take time to check it out. You can take your time or zip through however a nice time if you appreciate the history and story of Lincoln and those who were part of the town during that time. May be free however please donate. Recommend 10 dollars for family. Please donate as well worth it and less expensive and worth it.
Jeremey DeLeon — Google review
What an awesome experience, we absolutely loved our time here!! We happened to be visiting during the annual bluegrass music event which was such an added bonus. The kids loved seeing everyone dressed up in period outfits and giving demonstrations. We were able to talk to the blacksmith, the teachers in the one room school house and even get even a live demonstration on how they dyed yarn back then. Very cool!! The entry was FREE, but they do ask for a recommended donation.
The only downside we could see was that the gift shop and restaurant were now closed due to lack of or no funding. Seems the state of Illinois could be a greater help here. Such an amazing part of Illinois history, such a shame the State doesn't put more effort behind it.
Regardless, we had a great time and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about Lincoln, his history in Illinois and how they lived back then.
Jeff Grant — Google review
This wasn't originally in our plans for our trip to Springfield. We met with some friends who were visiting their family outside of town. After lunch, they took us to this site. This is where Lincoln got his start as a junior surveyor. The gentleman who took us was also an expert and a part-time tour guide, so he gave us a brief tour. We were rushed since this was our third day, and we had to drive back home. (It was a long drive.) We spent about 45 minutes at New Salem.
Some of the homes and shops are original. Others were built in the same style as the rest of the town. We saw homes, farms, an ox-drawn mill, and other things. We only made it through about 1/3 of the site before we had to go. So, we only saw some of what we wanted, but we got a very good flavor of life in this town about 160 years ago.
It was a fascinating stop, and we're very happy we did this. The last building we saw was the mill. There is a great picture of the part where the Oxen powered the mill. Our guide was around when they showed the mill working the last time. He said it was so loud, and the pressure exerted by the Oxen was so great you could hear the thumping of their footsteps far away.
We stopped short of seeing one of two houses that were Lincoln's shops. I'm disappointed we didn't see either of them. There was one right across the road from the mill. We didn't realize it until we were leaving, and I took another look at the map.
If you visit Springfield, leave time to visit New Salem.
Bob Rosenthal — Google review
Took 5 grandchildren ages 6 to 14. They all enjoyed learning from the volunteers like the lady spinning wool into yarn & the blacksmith. Really enjoyed the children's house. They got to dress up in period clothing, prepare "meals" & "build" a log cabin.
The Lincoln Monument Association is an organization that was founded in 1883 to raise money for the construction of a monument to Abraham Lincoln. The monument was eventually built and is now located in Springfield, Illinois.
I visited here when I was a kid on a field trip and found it so interesting I brought my own children back. There was a man when you walk through the door, not a tour guide, I dont think, but he was really polite and helpful. He gave us the overview of where everything was and was really great at answering my kids questions.
The tomb itself was really interesting. I found it very interesting that Abraham, Mary, Edward, William, and Tad seemed to be together, and there was an iron grate separating the space of their other son, Robert. Is it done purposely? I wonder if it has anything to do with Robert having Mary declared insane? Who knows, we recommend checking it out either way!
Melissa Piliponis — Google review
This place just oozes history, thoughtfulness and serenity. A perfect resting place for an amazing President and his family. It is quite the experience to see and walk through. Humbling almost. I didn’t take pictures inside out of respect. Also good not to spoil it sometimes. This is a must visit on your Springfield Lincoln trip.
Eric Sirinsky — Google review
This is wonderful, free spot to pay respect to a powerful president. We arrived at 4:45 right before they closed, so it was a quick, quiet, peaceful visit.
Bonnie Robinson — Google review
Absolutely astonishing to be able to see the tomb of the former president, if you are in Springfield i highly recommend visiting lincoln’s tomb
Jason — Google review
At the Lincoln Monument in Springfield, Il, you can literally touch history. An humbling and awe inspiring experience, a visit to Honest Abe’s final resting place should be on any travelers agenda when rambling through the Land of Lincoln.
Friendly and informative staff adds to this free admission experience.
Soghomon — Google review
Very interesting, well maintained grounds. The architecture was amazing. A wonderful tribute to Abe Lincoln for his final resting place. I didn't realize all he had accomplished in his lifetime.
VSTARBABY ?Vstarbaby? — Google review
The tomb is located in Oak Ridge Cemetery and there's enough signage that you certainly can't miss it. Or just follow the parade of school buses that are bringing and endless number of kids here to see it.
That said, you will want to wait until after all the kids have been and gone through the inside. It is underground and there is nothing to break down the echo. I lucked out and arrived during a school bus gap so I mostly had the inside to myself to see the tomb and view the statues of Lincoln inside and read the quotes.
I've been to the Lincoln Monument and I've been to Gettysburg. This was definitely worth it for me.
Bruce K. — Google review
Very interesting (and quick) stop if you're a history buff. The memorial and tomb and the grounds are beautiful, well kept and the staff working there are very knowledgeable.
Travis Cannon — Google review
Great monument - enjoy the silence because when kids come it is going to be loud. Unfortunately no respect from the (american) parents to keep their kids quiet. Sad. But the monument itself is very nice!
Jetlover X — Google review
Stopped on our road trip down Route 66 to see President Lincoln burial location. It was a great experience. I would recommend it to everyone.
Preston Plew — Google review
A powerful yet somber experience and tribute to the Great Abe Lincoln. The ground are beautiful, the monument is wonderful, the caretaker was extremely friendly and welcomed us and thanked us for coming and encouraged us to take pictures. Please remember that this is the final resting place of a great President and to respect the grounds, the monument, and his resting place.
Nicholas K — Google review
Finally made it, life long dream to visit! The closest you'll ever be to meeting this once great mind and man.
The architecture is amazing. The statues are beautiful and be sure to take the free tour, they explain every detail.
It was beautiful and peaceful. Not much of a crowd on this day.
Cemetery is very old. Be sure to visit the Accordion King at the entrance and pay your respects.
Also there are restrooms which is super convenient.
Jack Nikolson — Google review
Very neat obelisk monument and grave site of one of the greatest Presidents. The grounds were very interesting and well kept. Frisbee golf is decent course. Great trees.
Mac Conley — Google review
We were the only family there, so we didn't have to wait in the queue! This was simply a beautiful and humbling experience. The monument is well built. The first thing you feel is peaceful. Before you enter the tomb, there's a bronze bust of Lincoln. Make sure to rub the nose of the statute for good luck! Once you enter inside the building, you are greeted by the friendly volunteer. The interior design is quite posh- art deco style , and very very clean. There are few statutes, plaques and quotes, and a final resting place of President Lincoln and his wife and 3 children are also buried there.
It's free to enter, free parking and there's also a washroom area near the car park. Oh, drop a penny behind the building near the window for another luck!
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a must-see for history buffs. With an expansive array of exhibits, the center tells the full story of Lincoln's life in unique ways. The multimedia installations and hologram theater make it one of a kind, making it one of the most popular attractions in town.
There's no better place to learn about the life of Abe Lincoln than at this museum.
I would recommend it for families or school groups. Personally, the ideal minimum age is probably around 10+ as getting the most out of each exhibit requires patience and reading. My boys are a bit younger and it was tough for them to stay focused till the end.
Any weather conditions are fine because the museum is entirely indoors. It was pouring rain during our visit; the staff was kind enough to offer plastic bags to house each of our wet umbrellas.
Don't bother bringing food or drinks in. They won't allow them, but if you forget you can rent a locker for a quarter.
You should allocate 3-4 hours of time here in order to enjoy each exhibit and both theatre shows.
Keep an eye out for the Abe Lincoln impersonator that will occasionally pop out and roam around. He's happy to greet you and discuss anything from his life, including his wrestling career!!
You won't regret your visit here.
Corey Mitchell — Google review
This Museum is AWESOME. For everyone who wants to know about Abraham Lincoln's life, I highly recommend it . Mostly, don't miss none of the projection shows. We weren't able to see all due to some technical issues they are having that day and one show was cancelled. All the museum's employees were great. Thank you
Pierra Altesse — Google review
Nice museum about Lincoln.
Entry price of $15 is too much.
Loved the life sized statues of Lincoln and his family.
Presentations were nice and creative, but I wish they had more details about his life and growing up.
Cafe closes at 3 pm, I wish they had it open longer.
There is street parking but the coin slots were not working. There is a parking garage a block away.
The merchandise shop has a lot of unique stuff but is overpriced.
Dr. Ravikiran Barigala — Google review
Made my semi-annual visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum this afternoon and it never seizes to immerse my curiosity and attention. Very cool being able to view an original copy of the Gettysburg Address written in Lincoln's own hand. The two theater shows are both absolutely incredible. Both sections of Lincoln's life are fabulously brought to life. As an historian, I fully appreciate every aspect of this museum and can't wait to return.
Kaleb Huffman — Google review
Really nice museum. It has a ton of stuff to look at, very well presented. You will learn things you never knew. Covers Lincoln’s life from his childhood to his death. There are a couple shows that are worth a watch, too. Kids and history buffs alike will enjoy this.
Hudson Witzig Gomez — Google review
This was such a fun experience! I haven't been here since I came with a field trip. Today I got today take my children through the museum and share those experiences and memories with them. Our kids are 9 and 11 and both found the museum and theatres very entertaining and educational. We really enjoyed how Lincoln is portrayed as a real human with flaws, as opposed to just "the legend". My only critique is the Cafe. There was little to no selection for food ,( I think it was just hot dogs, chilli for dogs, and pulled pork?) Only throwing that in for parents with young kids who are picky. We also visited on a Thursday morning, so that may have played a part? Either way, it was an amazing experience, highly recommend checking this out! There was a traveling experience for you've kids(10 and under), and we didn't check that out since both kids couldn't go in.
Melissa Piliponis — Google review
Went for the first time today and it was wonderful! There is so much to read and learn that I’m sure I missed a lot! The exhibits are wonderfully done, so many beautiful things to see. They have many authentic pieces behind glass and they had 2 amazing short shows today, they were so neat! Definitely not what I thought I was walking into. The staff was very nice, helpful, and informative. I will definitely be back and I’m sure I will find a ton that I missed! I also strongly suggest doing the scavenger hunt they provide, it makes you really look for the information and adds some extra excitement to it! They have an online version or a hard copy!
Even the gift shop had a ton of cool stuff!! I couldn’t believe this experience was only $15! A really good price for the education and fun! The staff also informed us a new exhibit will be opening in March, I am excited to go back and see it!
Lakota Page — Google review
I learned so much about Abraham Lincoln at the Museum. It was educational. I was very intrigued by the map that showed the progression of the Civil War, with the names of the battles and how much territory was gained/lost, and how many deaths. I didn’t realize how much heck he got from the press. There is a whole section of cartoons from the newspapers at the time of the elections through the Presidency. I also didn’t know that Booth was a fairly well known actor. This is definitely a must see! We did walk over to the Library too, but to look at the books you need an appointment. But there were a few things displayed around the main floor you could look at.
Jan Bishop — Google review
One of my favorite places to visit in central Illinois. My wife and I carried our 2 grandsons 12 and 8 years old and they loved it. Mitch Adams is our favorite volunteer. He loves Lincoln and sharing knowledge with others about this great museum and library. Well worth the trip.
Tommy Jones — Google review
This is a must do for everyone! The museum covers his life from his childhood to his presidency. You get to walk through a replica of his childhood one room cabin as well as replicas of the White House. The 3D show was great. There is tons of information and relics of the Lincoln family. I highly recommend this for everyone to enjoy!
Mikha’el Cline — Google review
It’s one of the best museum in town. We learn so much and had a one to one guidance with rich information about the president life, from his birth,his childhood, his manhood, his personal learning and self education, his family, his stressful but always forwarding life as a son, husband, father, lawyer and president. I feel impressed for his humbleness in every stage of his life
Jenn James — Google review
This museum was absolutely fantastic!! I was so impressed with the realistic exhibits. It was so informative. Very clean. The technology was amazing. The Ghosts show was just incredible. The people who worked here were kind and knowledgeable. The restaurant was clean. The gift shop was very large with a wide variety of souvenirs from which to choose. We came on a school field trip and had a wonderful time.
Avra Robinson Vandre — Google review
The Abe Lincoln Museum is really remarkable. So many exhibits and each with detailed plaques of information. There is two different theaters which have shows running all day which I highly recommend checking out. The staff is always friendly and helpful and the gift shop is full of unique items. This museum is my go to place just to be reminded of history or anytime I need some inspiration for a paper or book I am working on. I also recommend reading each exhibit and soaking in everything instead of just quickly walking through.
Issac Mcgrew — Google review
Loved it. Have always been a fan of President Lincoln (how could you not be?), but was super cool to see and read about his life and his presidency. In particular, I enjoyed seeing a handwritten copy of the Gettysburg Address! 100% would recommend stopping by when in the area!
Eric Weber — Google review
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum was surprisingly very interesting. They had a couple of interactive theaters that lasted around 15-17 minutes each. An exhibit of how they thought Abraham was raised. That exhibit has a fun scavanger hunt. They have an exhibit of different presidents and their history. And, of course, the political life of Abraham Lincoln all of the way to his assassination.
I would suggest calling ahead if you would like a group tour. Otherwise, you are welcome to walk in and pay. They don't allow food, drink, or gum.
I would say to take a good 4 hours here soaking it all in. They do have a gift shop with interesting little things to buy like huckleberry syrup.
The Abraham Lincoln Home National Historic Site is a house where Abraham Lincoln lived and worked from 1844 to 1861. The house is located in downtown Springfield, Illinois, and visitors can learn about the life of Lincoln as a lawyer, politician and finally as President of the United States during their tours.
The house was very interesting. The tour guide was good. He should definitely go through it at least one time in your life. Just to say you did it. There's so much in this town to look at it definitely will take a couple trips especially if you're doing a weekend adventure.
If you're wondering this is a free tour. You do have to ask for tickets and the visiting center.
Jess — Google review
We stopped in here on our national park tour that we do.
It was amazing it was very well done.
The home is well restored and exactly like it was when Lincoln lived there.
The staff at the visitor center was friendly and helpful and helped answer all of our questions.
The movie is nice to see and well worth the time
Alan Brown — Google review
Great site to tour. The tour guides were very knowledgeable. The home itself have quite a few period artifacts from the Lincolns personal collection as well as furniture used by the Lincoln family.
This is the only home that Mr. Lincoln owned prior to moving to the White House. It is also where his children were born and died as well.
It is best to get there early to avoid the large school bus tours that begin to show up as the day progresses.
It is definitely worth the stop and visit. And it is free of charge.
Mike Frankel — Google review
It's a great place to visit for all ages. I visited this place during the spring break 2022 with my 5 year old toddler son. If you are going there for the first time, here is the few information:
1. Tour to Lincoln's home is free, but it is guided one. It leaves every 30 min, so try to put your name down as soon as you get to the museum
2. The parking is free and that is in front of the visitor center. No worries - there is enough parking spot.
3. If you are with kid, let your kid participate in the Junior ranger program... it takes only 15-20, but the fun part is they get certificate signed by the ranger and also a Junior ranger badge. This one is free as well.
4. Take a walk outside the Lincoln's home on the brick-road. You will feel you have gone 200 years back in time-machine.
Madan Kundu — Google review
This is a must see National Historic Site. You get to walk through Lincoln’s home. See his actual furniture including his writing desk. Also, walk his yard and neighborhood as it was in the 1850’s. It’s all well presented. Storyboards everywhere. The visitor center has a great movie and shop. I came here once before in 1968 for a grade school trip. The National Park Service restored it in the 1980’s so now it’s much better experience than the old days. Go visit Lincoln’s home
RV Traveler — Google review
This was a great little stop on our road trip through Springfield. While you did have to pay for parking if you parked in the lot, which was inexpensive, the rest of it all was free. It was interesting to see and hear about Lincoln’s life and walk through his home. The tour guide was helpful and kind. They shared a plethora of information. Definitely stop by if you find yourself in Springfield.
Denai C — Google review
This is a must do for anyone coming close to Springfield! You get to walk through the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned! It is furnished with most of his original furniture. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining. Admission is free, you just have to get tickets before your tour. The parking lot is a pay lot. It was busy today so we got tickets for later in the day. That way we had time to go though the Lincoln presidential library. Which was excellent as well. I highly recommend everyone to come and enjoy this experience!
Mikha’el Cline — Google review
The museum and historic houses encompass a beautifully preserved historic area near the old capital building. Our tour guide was incredibly Insightful and knowledgeable about the site, and she was pretty cute too. You have to get a tour ahead of time in order to see the house but it is free because of Robert Lincoln selling it to the state for $1.. Lots of awesome history here definitely recommend checking it out
Wisco Simple — Google review
What a cool experience! I very much enjoyed visiting here. The old neighborhood is wonderful as well as the visitor information center with s very nice gift shop, movie theater, bathroom & lots of education. Staff was very friendly & helpful. Theres a guest book you can sign. Parking is $2. Tours are free.
Elizabeth Ann — Google review
Our family was privileged to have a wonderful park ranger lead the tour of Lincoln's home. He was incredibly knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. I didn't realize the entire block is a historic site and many neighboring homes are open as exhibits with artifacts.
Bonnie Robinson — Google review
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site was the first stop on our "Lincoln weekend" in Springfield. While born in Kentucky, Abe Lincoln moved to Illinois while young with his family. The home still stands, although much of it was restored and repaired. They did a fantastic job of finding period-specific furniture and furnishings based on drawings and photos.
You start in their welcome center/gift shop. There is a brief presentation before you set out to see the house. It was a rainy day, but we did not let them stop us. The attached photos do the house justice, so I won't go into much more detail about what we saw. I already said I was impressed with the restoration and furnishings. Much of my comments are represented in the photos.
This home is only a part of a restored neighborhood of homes. These were the homes of Lincoln's friends and neighbors. Many are open to the public. Because of the weather, we chose to defer this part until our next visit.
This is a must-see for Lincoln fans and historians. It was well worth the price of entry (free).
Bob Rosenthal — Google review
This is a fantastic place to visit if you're interested in history. The tour guide is very knowledgeable and really brings the site to life. You'll learn a lot about President Lincoln's life and the historic significance of the site. One of the things that I really enjoyed about the site is how well-maintained it is. The grounds are clean and the buildings are in good shape, which makes for a really pleasant experience. The staff is also incredibly friendly and helpful. They're always happy to answer any questions you might have and make sure you're having a great time. There's plenty to do and see, whether you're interested in history or not. You can take a free guided tour of the site, explore the visitor center, or just wander around and take in the sights. Overall, I would highly recommend the Lincoln Home National Historic Site to anyone looking for a fun and educational experience.
Aliyah Thompson — Google review
After many years of wanting to visit, I finally made it. Not only President Lincoln's home but a other neighborhood homes are presented to help us recreate what it might have looked like in the 1840-60s. The tour of the Lincoln home is a guided tour by a park ranger so you get to hear interesting back stories that set the context. The house is well preserved, and I heard 60% of everything in there is original.
Venkat Chandramoleshwar — Google review
Really cool. It was around noon and the tours were already full for the day, so go early.
Parking is 2$ and can only be paid via credit card.
There is a visitors center with gift shop, rest rooms, theater, and water bottle filling station.
Lume — Google review
Nice Lincoln house in Springfield. It has been preserved in the same way it was during Lincoln times. It's not just his house but the whole street and surrounding houses have been preserved well. The side walk has wooded boards and roads have bricks. I would recommend getting tickets early as we went 1 hour before closing time which is 5 pm and it was booked out. They have a nice gift shop in the information center.
Dr. Ravikiran Barigala — Google review
I would diffently recommend going here. You get to learn a lot about him and his family and friends. You get to walk around his town and see how he lived and what he did on a daily basis. My favorite part was going through his house and touching the railing that he touched. I think everybody would love to tour his house. It's really fun.
John Snow — Google review
I’ve been to the Lincoln Museum and Presidential Library many times. I’m so mad at myself for not getting to his crib. The staff are all National Parks staff and they are wonderful, informative and helpful. The visitors center has a ton of info and a short on Lincoln in Springfield. The home is meticulously restored. Walking the streets of Abe’s neighborhood will catapult you into the mid 1800’s.
Thomas Aussem — Google review
Bestttttt ! Highly recommended to each person who r interested ! Very much beautiful place for one day tour…. Stuffs r very helpful ! Visitor center is d best information center & quick watching short theatre too !
Sayani Chatterjee — Google review
What a lovely National Park. Not only is Abraham Lincoln's hone super interesting and authentic, but the street is lined with historic homes and interesting information. When touring the home, you go upstairs and use the original handrail that Lincoln used...one of the young girls (maybe 11yo) in the group said "I am never washing my hand again, I touched where Lincoln touched." It was very cool. Shannon was our tour guide, volunteer, and she was great!! Worth the trip!!
Karen Gale — Google review
Just being able to tour these homes is amazing. Thanks to the National Park Service for the work you do preserving our parks and our history.
Site of a 13th-century Native American urban center with artifacts & ruins of homes & monuments.
This is a fantastic historical site that you can enjoy with your whole family. There are several miles of hiking trails with certain important markers along the way and the view of St. Louis from the top of Monk's Mound is stunning on a clear day. I love the placards placed around that give you insight into the history of the location and there are some fun stops with augmented reality placards. Over all 10/10.
Kimberly Klinge — Google review
My adult children don’t understand my enjoyment of Native American mounds. Fundamentally they’re just irregularly shaped hills on a grassy field. But it’s exactly because the hills are unnatural, obviously purposeful, and yet mysterious that I love them as a place for a nice walk. This is the best collection of mounds in the nation, the walking paths wind around a beautiful field, and the tallest mound is high enough for some great views and some decent exercise. It’s just off the interstate, so stop by to stretch your legs and to try to imagine the area 800 years ago.
Bradford Sledge — Google review
I film documentaries on Native Americans and this site happened to be along my route home. It is incredible! I wish the visitor’s center would have been open, and I wish I would have understood how big the grounds are.
Even though the building was not open, the grounds have plenty of information to keep you busy for at least a full afternoon.
Parking was not the best near the main mound, but there is plenty of parking across the street, so be prepared to walk.
The only thing that might be a “negative” was the people running up and down the stairs for exercise. It seems a little disrespectful and didn’t seem all that safe with the number of people trying to walk up and down - but I also understand that this is probably normal and I was visiting the area.
It is definitely worth the visit and if you are from the area or driving through, you definitely need to check it out!!
Doug Shaw — Google review
If you like native American history this is a must see the museum here is packed with really cool artifacts and visual displays of life back then. The collection of arrowheads and weapons will take a while to look at. The mounds are cool to but only one is large enough to have stairs to get to the top and has a great views.
jeremy Bastert — Google review
The mounds are amazing! I have been waiting for a few years to visit. The visitors center is closed for renovations for the next 10 months… imagining the Native Americans hauling in all the dirt to build those mounds… it is mind boggling!! Excellent views from the top!
Laurie Swink — Google review
Cool place to see, but we were disappointed that the visitors center was closed. We enjoyed walking around and seeing the mounds and imagining it’s history. The signage around the trails could have been more informative.
Alexis Hale — Google review
I love history. This place is so fascinating! Bummer the visitors center was closed for renovations. We were passing through the area going back to Co, so hopefully someday we'll catch the visitor center when it's open. The stairs up to monks mound were easy enough for my 4 year old.
Katy Savage — Google review
Taking advantage of one of the last days of the year with above-freezing temperatures to visit Cahokia Mounds. Right away, I felt a connection with the Mississippians of that era (800-1400 A.D.), who, lacking natural hills in the region, decided to construct their own; about 120 mounds. Today, the site is an archaeological landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered a sacred location. The base of the site covers an area of more than 56m², and the highest point is about 30 meters high, an area where over 600,000 cubic meters of earth were manually moved; construction began around 950 A.D. and was expanded several times until 1250 A.D.
Leonildo Azevedo — Google review
The interpretive center is closed now for at least a year for repairs, so know this if you are wanting to see the center! We went the last day it was open knowing this.
The grounds are open for exploring, but in respect, please stay on the paths. Just a wonderful look on why this region was so important to the tribes in the area and gives you a feel of just how expansive it was when you are on Monks Mound - and you are only seeing part of it!
Michelle Haller — Google review
Cool spot to walk around by yourself or with family. Great that they have placed signage to educate others about the history of the mounds and it has a beautiful view to St Louis from the horizon.
Highly recommended!! 🙏🏼💙😎
Officer Dad Life — Google review
The interpretive center is still closed during the renovation, but the restrooms were available, as well as the maps of the trails and the whole site. The history that you can feel, while walking the grounds, and reading the signs, is enlightening.
Brian Winschel — Google review
Amazing to see the mound - largest pre-Columbian establishment in North America. It helps to read info boards, if you are not familiar with the site. I came before sunrise, lots of locals take the hike and work out on the stairs. Visitor center opens at 10am but area is free for roaming. It is so accessible right next to the road and if you are familiar or know the place you can kind of see it off from the interstate highway next to it.
chintot — Google review
There are places that fill the soul with wonder.
This is among them.
A prominent World Heritage site that somehow remains a majestic secret.
The visitor's center was great, but currently closed for renovations.
The signage on the mounds themselves are well done.
Atop Monk's Mound are great views and a kind serenity.
Bret Bement — Google review
Great place to walk around and visit some history. The top of Monks Mound has a great view of the Gateway Arch.
Justin Cadarette — Google review
Arrived just after it rained and before sunset. Lots of information with facts and history. It's a slight walk from the parking lot but there are nice pathways that are easy to walk on. The stairs and pathway from the base to the top are not handicap accessible, but there is a nice sturdy handrail along the steps which I depended on being not good with heights. I surprised myself and made it to the top and back. Such a beautiful place with so many secrets and history. St Louis skyline is visible in the distance.
Julie Heeren — Google review
Large area with hiking trails up to 10 miles.
Beautiful scenery, well kept surroundings, free parking. The museum is currently closed for renovation, but the park is open.
They have App available for guidance and visualization, maps and board information.
Great place to spend few hours.
beingspontaneous — Google review
Beautiful place with St.Louis visible across the river. Fascinating history. I've visited a variety of these mound sites from here to Florida and all of them are incredible.
Wesley R (DynamicMushroom) — Google review
Fantastic site. The interpretive center is currently closed for renovations but there is a trail map and a flyer, plus many informational signs. I highly recommend it.
Valérie Lent — Google review
Cahokia Mounds is a great place to visit if you are driving through Missouri and Illinois. The huge mound has so much history and significance to Native American culture. It’s a great place to learn about a thriving settlement that existed so long ago. The views are breathtaking, and you can visit within 30 minutes if you are in a hurry. My husband and I visited with our pet ferret when it was drizzling, and we had a great time.
A 2-ton bronze monument to Superman represents the town's claim to being his birthplace.
Stopped here while on a road trip recently. Neat town, I picked up a couple things at the gift shop. I would like to see the gift shop have more reasonably priced toys for kids.
Chris Cole — Google review
We visited on Eclipse day so the town had blocked off the streets around this.
If you are a comic fan this place is fun. Great photo op with the statue! A few blocks down the street is a Lois Lane statue that is not to be missed.
Jason Bushmire — Google review
I would say this statue is one of the most unique courthouse statues I’ve ever come across! This monster is 12’ tall and has a nice platform where one can take photos with him. It’s a roadside America attraction, but is located in the hometown of Superman, Metropolis, so be sure to visit the town and museum/shop when here. Pull right up to the courthouse and you’ll see him; there are many helpful signs directing FB you right here, as well. Cheers!
Kyle Hartmann — Google review
Fun little clean town with several photo ops Superman is in great shape, there's also Big Boy, Lois Lane, the Daily planet, criptonite, and several beautiful and cool murals. A Superman store also!! Stop and have some fun!!
Toni Holder Flanagan — Google review
I understand that there are a lot of places that claim to be the real Superman home, but my road trip took me through metropolis and into Superman square. As you drive in. You see a huge statue of Superman just in the center of town and it's so cool. I got into town around 4:00 and all of the stores were closed already which was super disappointing since there was nothing at all to do in the town but look at the statue I guess try to go earlier in the day if you wanted to walk around and really get to feel for the town, but it's a really quick and easy stop if you're ever headed out that way
Aimee Robidoux — Google review
This was so cool! This little town was absolutely adorable! Although everything was closed on a Sunday except the Superman store.
I would have thought the coffee shop or food would have been open. There was a decent amount of people walking around looking for a place to sit and eat.
Just check the hours before you make that long drive for your visit to metropolis.
Tammy Lawson — Google review
Neat side stop on our road trip. Fun gaming store in town and nice superman shop. Didn't make it through the museum.
jason kluczyk — Google review
Great pitstop ! We came on a Saturday in June, around 1 pm and there was hardly anyone there so we got some good photos. The statue is kept nice and clean, and across the street is a little gift shop. It's definitely worth a 10-minute stop.
Andrea K — Google review
Short drive off the interstate, great place to stretch your legs and take a few pictures. Kids loved it, smiles all around.
GBDoll — Google review
We ALWAYS enjoy going to see the Superman Statue and Our Close Friends that Own the Museum and their other store Rare Gems!! When you are in Southern Illinois at Metropolis, they would love for you to stop in!!
Ginger Lewis — Google review
Stopped by after the eclipse. They apparently had a street festival for the eclipse and it was just a very festive atmosphere. On a regular day it may not seem so special, but anyone who's a big fan of Superman should stop and check it out.
Amanda Smith — Google review
It’s a 15’ tall metal painted stature of Superman. It’s weird. But also fun. Been here a lot actually. Cute little town. And a dispensary now so a new reason to visit!
Josh — Google review
Always wanted to stop here, never been convenient. It was at night, but still pretty cool.
Matthew Walters — Google review
It's a pretty cool place if you grew up in the sixties and seventies, don't know about younger folks.
Timothy Hilgenberg — Google review
A fun stop to see the Home of Superman! Nice little gift shop/museum situated across the street from the statue. Great photo ops around town. A must see for any super hero fan.
A Smith — Google review
This enormous Superman statue does not disappoint. If you're driving through the area, you definitely need to stop by and snap a couple of selfies with the Man of Steel. (Don't forget Lois Lane and the kryptonite rock too!)
Science exhibits, an earthquake simulator & an aquarium, plus gardens & a replica early-1900s town.
Family fun for everyone: hubby and I and 4 kids ranging from 15 to 7 years of age. We all had a good time! Large facility, indoor and outdoor exhibits. Large outdoor area, if you had a little one, you might want a stroller. No outside food or drink, but the Sabin’s cafe inside the Discovery Park was reasonably priced and kid friendly food, including salad and other healthier options in a cold case. The exhibits were really well done, the staff were kind and helpful and we especially enjoyed Taylor the Rock Guy! We stayed almost the whole day and still didn’t see everything. The price of admission, without adding any of the extras (there was enough to do without the simulators) was acceptable, especially for 6 hours of fun. The only exhibit we didn’t get to enjoy was the outdoor maze, the trees weren’t planted yet. The train was super cool. The rocket with its launch buttons were a favorite of my kids. I didn’t get a picture of the giant human slide! They wanted to do that more than once. So many cool things to experience, see, and enjoy!
Charity Ann — Google review
What an awesome place! We took our 4 year old, and he had a great time, so did we! We spent about 3 hours there and didn't quite get to see everything. If you have an EBT card, you get in free with up to 3 people. There's something for everyone there. The antique car collection is really cool. They have plenty to see and do inside as well as outside.
We'll definitely be going back to see what we missed last time. Great place!!
Stephanie L. — Google review
Something for everyone. Great experience. Clean and reasonably priced food. Beautiful gardens and views. We paid extra for earthquake simulator are dinosaur movie. Tower was great experience. Could have spent two days here. Nice gift shop. Both educational and fun.
Amy Gardner — Google review
I went with my daughter's school and it was so much fun! Because it was a 1 day field trip we didn't have as much time to spend looking and playing as we would have liked. That being said we are planning a family weekend trip beginning of June bc they offer live music for free certain weekend nights. We are very excited to go back for a fun family weekend.
Susan Mercer — Google review
Amazing experience for a family! It was a wonderful rain day activity for our family. We loved it! SO diverse in the type of knowledge to be learned. Also many activities for the kids and honestly cost efficient for family entertainment. We ate lunch before we went, so we didn't have that added expense.
Amy Dull — Google review
Great place!! We was there bout 5 hours and seen everything except for the special attractions. We was outside and it was hot but just about every building we went in except for the old time cabins had air conditioning so it really gave us a way to cool off along the way. It wasn't crowded we wasn't rushed to the next building. It was a great experience for the kids they loved it. HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. Well worth the money!!!
Dana Waldren — Google review
It's a great place to take the kids, very educational and fun too. The gardens were beautiful. I went with a school field trip and there were several other schools there too. It didn't seem super crowded, there was so much to see. I would definitely go back again. The food was good, basic fare but a little pricey.
Christine Haskins — Google review
My son was lucky enough to go to Discovery Park with his class before school was out. Being 7 he was overwhelmed by all there is to see and didn’t really enjoy the whole park because of the whole elementary school being there. The last week of school before summer break he and I sat down and wrote down a bucket list of things to do this summer while he’s off. Number one on his list was to revisit the Discovery Park with his mom and dad. We chose a Tuesday that has cool weather and dry. And we were rewarded with the greatest weather to walk outdoors across the whole property exploring every inch of the property. His favorite place was the Children’s discovery garden where he made new friends and played for hours on the jungle gyms and zip lines. Once inside the discovery centers main building, he was able to have his hands on everything that he couldn’t before because there were not a dozen visitors on each level. The Native American display was so impressive, the classic and antique car collection was magnificent. The war section was very informative. The children are inspired every where in the main building. So much excitement in the voices of the children as well as grownups. They have two different food courts from which to choose from. Quite an experience for all. I highly recommend everyone visit soon.
Roger Moredock — Google review
You MUST make this a way point on your family vacation! We found it when we passed by on our way to other attractions further north, and came back through just to go here. WOW! We were incredibly surprised by the impressive exhibits, hands on attractions, and historic village. I thought it would be a 2 or 3 hour experience...we were there from opening to closing! The food in the Cafe was reasonably priced and delicious. The staff throughout was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. Don't miss the craftsman shops outside for demos and expertise! Purchase tickets online for a 15% discount. We spent more time here than we did at the Ark!
Courtney Butler — Google review
Actually I’ve been here a couple of times. There’s so much to see. It’s quite an interesting museum build with all different kinds of artifacts. The outside is really unique with all different kinds of exhibits throughout the year. They say that Christmas is the best. I know that they have concerts during the summer. Definitely worth a visit or two.
Jan Bass — Google review
We spent an entire day here. We were able to get through all of the exhibits, inside and out. Well worth the admission price, even if you have to drive a few hours to get there. I think there is literally something there for everyone. The kids especially liked the giant slide. All the employees we interacted with were both knowledgeable and very nice. We will definitely be back again. If you are planning to visit, arrive early to maximize the time you have there, you will need it. NOTE: Stand in the center of the inflated dome that looks like the moon, the acoustics are wild.
Michael Priddy — Google review
Love this place! So much to do you can't really finish it all in one day! Definitely go up in the tower, the view is amazing! The outdoor play area is wonderful for kids, the train part is super cool and the have a giant slide inside for kids and the young at heart! Great place to spend a day as a family.
Jennifer Kuchar — Google review
This was the place we went for my daughter's 3rd grade field trip and the experience was amazing. There are so many cool things to see and do. Us getting bored wasn't even an option. This is a place I would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to experience the past, present, and future all in one place.
Marie Brownlee — Google review
I loved it. The kids loved it too. Complimentary aids like scooter, wheelchair and stroller. No charge!
This was the first time I have seen snakes willing to interact or move on display.
I loved the Chamber. I may have driven some fear into my son but it was good knowledge.
The exploratory with water and the sunlight was a perfect design idea. The slide from the 3rd to 2nd floor was a super dope creation. (The kids do have to be at least 3ft for it).
About outside, like the best drain of all. I didn't get to see the entire outside. The kids play area was fun. They love all the extra little things. There was a speaker playing music which was fantastic since my kids love to jam.
Labyrinth caught me off guard. The giant outdoor chest surprised me also.
There is fun for all ages. I thought "the museum" is a good place on a rainy day but I wouldn't recommend it if you like to be outside exploring. There is a lot to see.
Lesha Henderson — Google review
This place is simply amazing. There's so much to see and do. It is much larger than the outside suggest. And there's as much to do outside as inside. There are live demonstrations in some of the outdoor buildings. There's lots of hands on things for kids to do. My granddaughters 8 and twins 5 had a fantastic time. They got to ride an escalator for the first time and there's a Cafe to grab a bite to eat. The Cooper Tower ( it's $5.99 for adults) is a must do. And it's very affordable for everyone. A super great family place!!!
Brenda R — Google review
Awesome place to visit! I would recommend 2 days to go through it, if you really wanna learn. Reading each sign throughout gives you a lesson relevant to the surrounding area in various subjects and neat artifacts to look at. The park also holds various events throughout the year as well. Check out their website.
Mason Shumate — Google review
It's kinda cool, but if you don't know, you can miss it... but in the museum area, there are way more hidden behind a giant book on the first floor and around the corner on the second. The outside playground is great.
Encosma Napier — Google review
What an amazing place. The testimonial they put on the website summed it up well about it being like your favorite rich uncle bringing back cool things from around the world and putting them in your yard. It was fun and great for all 4 of us and it's a phenomenal spot for all ages and backgrounds. We will be becoming annual members for sure.
Kyle Lawley — Google review
We had an amazing trip to Discovery Park with my kids. They loved all the hands on science features, the 3D films, and the gigantic human slide. They are also really into dinosaurs so the fossilized dinos were a fav. We also ate at the cafe and the hamburger and tots were good. It was rainy so we couldn't do as much outside, but the barn, trains and settlement building were cool!