Discover Wisconsin through Media

Wisconsin, popularly known as the ‘Badger State’, is not only famed for its dairy farms and football, but also for its significant contribution to the world of cinema and literature. The state’s picturesque landscapes, diverse architecture, and rich cultural heritage have served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, television shows, and books. From classic films to contemporary TV series and from children’s animation to renowned books, Wisconsin has been immortalized in various artistic forms.

Whether you’re a cinephile, a bibliophile, or a traveler looking to explore Wisconsin from a unique perspective, this comprehensive guide will tour you through Wisconsin’s famous filming locations, literary settings, and much more. Let’s embark on this cinematic journey!

10 Famous Films Shot in Wisconsin

Renowned for its stunning landscapes and architectural splendor, Wisconsin has served as the filming location for several celebrated films that have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Here is a list of ten famous films shot in Wisconsin:

1. “Public Enemies” (2009)  – Directed by Michael Mann, this film features Johnny Depp as the infamous American gangster John Dillinger. Several scenes were shot in various locations across Wisconsin, including Milwaukee, Madison, and Manitowish Waters.
2. “The Straight Story” (1999)  – Directed by David Lynch, this film tells the remarkable true story of Alvin Straight, who embarked on a 240-mile journey on a lawnmower to reunite with his estranged brother. The film was primarily shot in Mount Zion and Laurens, Wisconsin.
3. “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (2011)  – This popular installment of the Transformers franchise, directed by Michael Bay, features scenes shot in Milwaukee’s historic Tower Automotive building.
4. “Bridesmaids” (2011)  – Although most of this comedy, directed by Paul Feig, was filmed in California, the opening scene was shot in Milwaukee.
5. “Love Actually” (2003)  – This beloved British romantic comedy, directed by Richard Curtis, features a storyline set in the rural town of Rufus, Wisconsin.
6. “American Movie” (1999)  – This cult documentary, directed by Chris Smith, follows the life of an aspiring filmmaker in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
7. “Major League” (1989)  – Although this classic sports comedy is about the Cleveland Indians, it was primarily shot in Milwaukee’s County Stadium.
8. “Dawn of the Dead” (2004)  – Directed by Zack Snyder, this horror film features scenes shot in the Crossroads Mall in Pewaukee, Wisconsin.
9. “The Giant Spider Invasion” (1975)  – This low-budget cult classic, directed by Bill Rebane, was filmed entirely in Merrill, Wisconsin.
10. “The Last Kiss” (2006)  – This romantic drama, directed by Tony Goldwyn, was primarily shot in Madison, Wisconsin.

5 TV Shows Set in Wisconsin

Apart from films, Wisconsin’s unique charm has also been the setting for several popular TV shows. Here are five of the most well-known ones:

1. “That ’70s Show” (1998-2006)  – Set in the fictitious town of Point Place, Wisconsin, this sitcom is a nostalgic look back at life in the 1970s.
2. “Happy Days” (1974-1984)  and its spinoff  “Laverne & Shirley” (1976-1983)  – Both these classic sitcoms were set in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and captured the city’s spirit in the mid-20th century.
3. “Making a Murderer” (2015)  – This critically acclaimed Netflix documentary series is set in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, and explores the controversial case of Steven Avery.
4. “Picket Fences” (1992-1996)  – This drama, set in the fictitious town of Rome, Wisconsin, won 14 Primetime Emmy Awards during its four-season run.
5. “A Minute with Stan Hooper” (2003-2004)  – This comedy series features Norm Macdonald as Stan Hooper, a famous journalist who moves to a small town in Wisconsin to experience ‘real America’.

5 Animated Films Set in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture have also served as inspiration for various animated films. Here are five noteworthy examples:

1. “An American Tail” (1986)  – Directed by Don Bluth, this animated film features a scene where the mouse family discusses moving to Wisconsin.
2. “Barnyard” (2006)  – Although not explicitly stated, this animated comedy, directed by Steve Oedekerk, is believed to be set in Wisconsin, as indicated by the license plates on vehicles.
3. “The Giant Cheese Squeeze” (2006)  – This animated short film, directed by John R. Dilworth, is set in Cheddarville, Wisconsin, a town known for its cheese.
4. “Stoked” (2009-2013)  – In one episode of this Canadian animated series, the character Broseph mentions Wisconsin Dells, a city in south-central Wisconsin renowned for its water parks.
5. “Bucky and Pepito” (1959)  – In one episode of this classic animated series, the two protagonists take a trip to Wisconsin.

Famous Books Set in Wisconsin: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Wisconsin’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Wisconsin:

Classic:

1. “Little House in the Big Woods”  by Laura Ingalls Wilder – This is the first book in the “Little House” series, and it’s set in the dense Wisconsin woods.
2. “A Reliable Wife”  by Robert Goolrick – A tale of love and revenge, this novel is set in the harsh Wisconsin winter.
3. “The Art of Fielding”  by Chad Harbach – This novel, set at a fictional college in Wisconsin, is about a college baseball star who is overwhelmed by his own perfection.

Contemporary:

1. “Shotgun Lovesongs”  by Nickolas Butler – This is a heartfelt story of friendship and love, set in the small town of Little Wing, Wisconsin.
2. “The Story of Edgar Sawtelle”  by David Wroblewski – This best-selling novel is set in the remote, rural farmlands of Wisconsin.
3. “American Gods”  by Neil Gaiman – While this novel isn’t entirely set in Wisconsin, a significant portion of the plot unfolds in the fictitious town of Lakeside, Wisconsin.

Exploring Wisconsin Filming Locations: Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in Wisconsin’s film and literary history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are some notable spots:

1. Milwaukee  – As the largest city in Wisconsin, Milwaukee has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. Walk around the city’s historic Third Ward or take a tour of the Milwaukee Art Museum.
2. Madison  – Known for its beautiful state capitol building and the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, this city has also served as a filming location for several movies.
3. Manitowish Waters  – This small town in northern Wisconsin was a filming location for the movie “Public Enemies”. You can visit the Little Bohemia Lodge, where the actual shootout between John Dillinger and the FBI took place.
4. Kenosha  – Visit the Kenosha County Courthouse, which was featured in the film “The Surface”.
5. La Crosse  – This city on the Mississippi River is not only a popular filming location but also the setting for several books.
6. Wisconsin Dells  – Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World”, Wisconsin Dells has been referenced in several animated films and TV shows.
7. Mount Zion  – Visit the filming locations of “The Straight Story” in this small Wisconsin town.

Where to Sleep in Wisconsin: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury

When it comes to accommodation, Wisconsin offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some suggestions for both budget and luxury accommodations in Wisconsin:

Budget:

1. The Plaza Hotel, Milwaukee  – This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms in a convenient location.
2. Americas Best Value Inn, Madison  – Offering clean rooms and friendly service, this hotel provides good value for money.
3. Super 8 by Wyndham, Wisconsin Dells  – Located near several attractions, this affordable hotel offers comfortable accommodations.

Luxury:

1. The Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee  – This luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city.
2. The Edgewater, Madison  – This upscale hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, along with a spa and several dining options.
3. Sundara Inn & Spa, Wisconsin Dells  – This adults-only destination spa resort is perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Where to Eat in Wisconsin: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury

Wisconsin’s culinary scene is as diverse as its cinematic landscape. From traditional Wisconsin cheese curds to world-class dining, the state offers a plethora of dining options. Here are some suggestions for both budget and luxury dining in Wisconsin:

Budget:

1. The Old Fashioned, Madison  – This restaurant offers traditional Wisconsin fare at affordable prices.
2. Leon’s Frozen Custard, Milwaukee  – This iconic drive-in serves some of the best frozen custard in the state.
3. Mickies Dairy Bar, Madison  – Known for its hearty breakfasts and classic diner feel, Mickies Dairy Bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Luxury:

1. Harbor House, Milwaukee  – This upscale seafood restaurant offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee skyline.
2. L’Etoile, Madison  – This fine dining restaurant serves locally-sourced, seasonal dishes.
3. Ishnala Supper Club, Wisconsin Dells  – Located in the middle of Mirror Lake State Park, Ishnala Supper Club offers a unique dining experience with stunning views.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Wisconsin, here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary that will take you to the state’s most iconic filming locations and literary settings:

Day 1: Milwaukee

Start your day with a visit to the historic Third Ward, where many scenes from “Public Enemies” were filmed. After lunch, take a tour of the Milwaukee Art Museum, which was featured in “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”. End your day with dinner at the Harbor House.

Day 2: Madison

Begin your day at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, where scenes from “The Last Kiss” were shot. After lunch, visit the State Capitol, which was featured in several films. Finish your day with dinner at L’Etoile.

Day 3: Manitowish Waters and Mount Zion

Spend your day exploring the filming locations of “Public Enemies” and “The Straight Story” in Manitowish Waters and Mount Zion. Enjoy a meal at a local diner.

Day 4: Wisconsin Dells

Spend your day at the waterparks, and make sure to visit the filming location of “Bridesmaids” at the White Water Bay Indoor Park. Finish your day with a relaxing dinner at Ishnala Supper Club.

Wisconsin’s Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Wisconsin, with its vast forests and numerous lakes, is a hotbed for cryptid legends. The most famous is the Beast of Bray Road, a werewolf-like creature reportedly seen in Elkhorn. Another legendary cryptid is the Hodag, a beast with the head of a frog, the grinning face of a giant elephant, thick short legs set off by huge claws, the back of a dinosaur, and a long tail with spears at the end. This creature is so popular in Rhinelander that it has become the symbol of the town.

There’s also the legend of the Rhinelander Hodag, a mythical creature said to inhabit the forests of Northern Wisconsin. In 1896, newspapers reported the discovery of a Hodag in Rhinelander, causing a sensation. Although the creature was later revealed to be a hoax, the Hodag has remained a popular local legend and is now the official symbol of Rhinelander.

Hidden Gems in Wisconsin

While the iconic landmarks of Wisconsin often steal the spotlight, the state is also home to several lesser-known gems. Here are a few:

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore  – This chain of 21 islands in Lake Superior is a paradise for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities.
2. House on the Rock  – Located in Spring Green, this architectural marvel is filled with eclectic collections and displays, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the unusual.
3. Taliesin  – Also located in Spring Green, Taliesin was the home of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors can tour the house and grounds.
4. The Domes  – Officially known as the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory in Milwaukee, the Domes are three beehive-shaped glass domes that house a variety of plant life.
5. Cave of the Mounds  – A natural limestone cave located near Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, it is dubbed the “jewel box” of major American caves for the variety and delicacy of its formations.

What to Pack for a Trip to Wisconsin

When packing for your film-themed trip to Wisconsin, ensure you’re prepared for the state’s diverse weather conditions. Here are some suggestions on what to pack for each season:

Spring (March to May): Pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate. Also, bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella for potential rain showers.

Summer (June to August): Pack light clothing, a good hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the sun. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November): Pack warm clothing like sweaters and jackets as the temperature starts to drop. Also, bring an umbrella or raincoat for the rainy days.

Winter (December to February): Pack heavy winter clothing including thermal wear, heavy jackets, and waterproof boots. Don’t forget to bring gloves, scarves, and hats to protect from the cold.

In all seasons, don’t forget to pack a map of Wisconsin, a portable charger, travel documents, and a translation app if you’re not familiar with English. Also, bring a notebook to jot down your observations and experiences at each film location.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Wisconsin

Getting around Wisconsin’s filming locations is relatively easy thanks to the state’s extensive road network. Here are some transportation tips:

1. Car:  Renting a car is the best way to explore Wisconsin, especially if you plan to visit filming locations outside the main cities.
2. Bike:  In cities like Madison and Milwaukee, biking is a popular mode of transportation. There are several bike rental services available.
3. Bus:  City bus services are available in most cities and towns in Wisconsin.
4. Walking:  Many filming locations in the city centers are within walking distance of each other.

Remember, Wisconsin is a large state, so always account for travel time between locations. Also, learning a few basic phrases in English or having a translation app can help when navigating public transport.

Conclusion

From its cinematic landscapes to its literary settings, Wisconsin offers a truly immersive experience for film and book enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Milwaukee, the tranquil countryside of Manitowish Waters, or the bustling university town of Madison, Wisconsin invites you to step into the scenes of your favorite films, TV shows, and books. So pack your bags, rev up your engines, and embark on a cinematic journey through the Badger State. Lights, camera, Wisconsin awaits!