Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Brookfield and Poynette
Whether you're a Wisconsinite in search of a fun weekend getaway or a traveler passing through the state, a road trip from Brookfield to Poynette is an adventure worth taking. Along this 72-mile route, you'll see rolling hills, picturesque farms, and charming small towns. And if you're looking for a midpoint stop to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat, make sure to check out Lake Mills. Here are our top five picks for places to visit on this scenic Wisconsin road trip.
1. Holy Hill National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians
Title: Climb to New Heights at Holy Hill
Location: Hubertus, WI
Description: Set atop one of the highest points in southeastern Wisconsin, the Holy Hill National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb the shrine's bell tower for an even more breathtaking panorama. The shrine's history dates back to the early 20th century, and the sprawling grounds feature a basilica, outdoor stations of the cross, and a gift shop.
2. Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
Title: Discover Wisconsin's Wild Side at Horicon Marsh
Location: Mayville, WI
Description: Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, and it's home to hundreds of species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. The state wildlife area encompasses over 33,000 acres, and visitors can explore it by foot, bike, or boat. The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
3. Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area
Title: Relax and Recharge at Forbes State Recreation Area
Location: Reedsburg, WI
Description: Named for a renowned 19th-century ecologist, the Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Wisconsin's Driftless Area. The recreation area features two lakes, a swimming beach, hiking trails, and campsites. Fishing is also popular here, with both largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and panfish commonly caught.
4. Old World Wisconsin
Title: Step Back in Time at Old World Wisconsin
Location: Eagle, WI
Description: Old World Wisconsin is a living history museum that takes visitors on a journey back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The sprawling grounds feature over 60 historic structures, from a one-room schoolhouse to a Polish-American farmstead. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts and skills, and visitors can try their hand at activities like cheese making, butter churning, and woodworking.
5. Wollersheim Winery & Distillery
Title: Raise a Glass at Wollersheim Winery and Distillery
Location: Prairie du Sac, WI
Description: Located in the scenic Wisconsin River Valley, Wollersheim Winery and Distillery is a family-owned business that has been producing award-winning wines and spirits since the 1970s. Visitors can tour the vineyard, winery, and distillery, and enjoy tastings of Wollersheim's signature wines, brandies, and liqueurs. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, including live music and grape stomps.
From religious shrines to natural wonders, living history museums to wineries, there's something for everyone on this road trip from Brookfield to Poynette. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems of Wisconsin's heartland.