Weird & Unusual Attractions in Madison, Wisconsin, United States
1. The House on the Rock
A unique architectural wonder with rooms filled with oddities and collections. Solves the challenge of offering a different kind of entertainment experience.
- Intricate Architecture: Features a complex structure with seven levels and over 200 rooms.
- Unique Collections: Boasts an extensive collection of world-class art, carousel organs, and mechanical musical instruments.
- Secluded Location: Located on a hillside overlooking Green Bay, providing a scenic and secluded atmosphere.
2. The Dane County Jail Tours
Tour the historic Dane County Jail, learning about its haunting past. Solves the challenge of providing a unique historical experience.
- Haunted History: A former jail with a history of executions and ghost sightings.
- Architectural Significance: Built in the late 19th century, showcasing Victorian Gothic architecture.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours with former inmates sharing personal stories and insights.
3. The Wisconsin Historical Museum's Weird Wisconsin Exhibit
Explore the bizarre, strange, and unusual side of Wisconsin's history. Solves the challenge of showcasing a lesser-known aspect of the state's past.
- Bizarre Artifacts: Displays oddities such as an iron lung used by famous outlaw John Dillinger.
- Interactive Experience: Includes interactive elements to engage visitors with the exhibits.
- Local Focus: Highlights stories and artifacts from various regions across Wisconsin.
4. The Wisconsin Troll Viking Statue
A giant troll statue hidden in the woods near Verona. Solves the challenge of creating a mysterious and intriguing landmark.
- Giant Size: Standing at over 16 feet tall, it's one of the largest troll statues in the world.
- Hidden Location: Located in a forested area off an unmarked path, adding to its mystery.
- Viking Theme: Inspired by Norse mythology and adds to the local Scandinavian heritage celebration.
5. The Great Dane Brewing Company's Flying Woodstock Zoo
A micro zoo located on a brewery's roof. Solves the challenge of combining animal attractions with beer-making.
- Rooftop Location: The only brewery in the world with a rooftop micro zoo.
- Unique Animals: Features exotic animals such as wallabies, emus, and camels.
- Beer Tasting: Visitors can enjoy a variety of craft beers while viewing the zoo.
6. The Cave of the Mounds
An ancient underground cavern with stunning geological formations. Solves the challenge of offering a natural wonder for visitors.
- Underground Exploration: A guided tour through a limestone cave system.
- Geological Wonders: Features rare geodes, stalactites, and flowstones.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs on geology and cave formation.
7. The International Crane Foundation
A conservation center dedicated to protecting cranes worldwide. Solves the challenge of raising awareness about endangered species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Home to 15 different crane species, including the whooping crane.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages.
- Wild Crane Release: Rehabilitates injured cranes before releasing them back into the wild.
8. The American Players Theatre's Outdoor Stage
A Shakespearean theater set in a scenic outdoor amphitheater. Solves the challenge of offering a unique theater experience.
- Outdoor Setting: Performances take place under a canopy of trees, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
- Classic Repertoire: Focuses on performing classic plays, primarily the works of Shakespeare.
- Picnic-style Dining: Visitors can bring their own picnics to enjoy during the performances.
9. The UW Arboretum's Carnivorous Plant Conservatory
A greenhouse dedicated to carnivorous plants. Solves the challenge of showcasing rare and unique plant life.
- Rare Plants: Features a variety of Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, and sundews.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the care and conservation of carnivorous plants.
- Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to get up close and personal with these fascinating plants.
10. The Wisconsin Firefighters Memorial
A tribute to firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Solves the challenge of honoring and remembering fallen heroes.
- Honor and Remembrance: A place to pay tribute to firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Artistic Design: Features beautiful sculptures and symbolic designs representing the fire service.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the history and importance of firefighting.
11. The Wisconsin National Guard Military Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Wisconsin National Guard. Solves the challenge of showcasing military history.
- Military History: Displays artifacts, uniforms, and vehicles from various wars and conflicts.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers educational programs about the history of the Wisconsin National Guard.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits for a more engaging experience.
12. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens' Thai Pavilion
A traditional Thai pavilion in a beautiful botanical garden. Solves the challenge of showcasing international culture and architecture.
- International Architecture: Features authentic Thai architectural design.
- Tropical Plants: Home to a collection of tropical plants and flowers.
- Cultural Programs: Offers cultural programs and events showcasing Thai traditions.
13. The Capital City Bike Tours' Haunted History Tour
A guided bike tour exploring the haunted history of Madison. Solves the challenge of offering a unique and engaging historical experience.
- Haunted History: Explores Madison's most haunted locations.
- Active Transportation: A bike tour allows for active exploration of the city.
- Nighttime Experience: Takes place at night, adding to the spooky atmosphere.
14. The Wisconsin State Capitol's Rotunda Mosaics
Stunning mosaics adorning the dome of the Wisconsin State Capitol. Solves the challenge of showcasing beautiful art in a historical setting.
- Historical Art: Features intricate mosaics created by local artist Charles Conrick.
- Architectural Significance: Located in the historic Wisconsin State Capitol building.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the capitol, including the Rotunda and its mosaics.
15. The Elvehjem Building's Chazen Museum of Art
An art museum featuring modern and contemporary works. Solves the challenge of offering a unique and engaging artistic experience.
- Modern Art: Features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artwork.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, workshops, and events related to the art on display.
- Artist Talks: Hosts artist talks and lectures, providing insights into the artistic process.