8 Unique Places to Plan an Event in Wisconsin
04/12/2024
Photo: ©Visit Milwaukee
There are countless reasons to consider hosting an event in Wisconsin. Not only is the state centrally located, but it also boasts a number of settings ideal for gatherings — from small to large, from simple to ornate. The venues in the state are frequently more cost-effective than larger Tier 1 counterparts, such as Chicago, New York and Los Angeles, too.
The success of many meetings depend on the venue. Luckily, Wisconsin offers a plethora of splendid spots complete with accoutrements that surprise and delight at every turn. Some of the best are housed within the greater Milwaukee and Madison areas.
Whether it’s the highly anticipated Baird Center set to open this year, the Miller High Life Theatre, the Harley-Davidson Museum or the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Panther Arena, Milwaukee is home to plenty of hotels, sports facilities and one-of-a-kind attractions.
And, a mere hour away, Madison is also known as a dynamic meeting and event destination. The capital city’s claim to fame is its Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace convention center, which is located on the shores of Lake Monona and near the Alliant Energy Center campus, a multi-building complex that is another top choice for conventions, trade shows, concerts and more.
Not to be outdone, Green Bay is a vibrant, friendly city that is experiencing exponential growth, resulting in new hotels, modern venues and updated infrastructure.
8 Places to Check Out
- Milwaukee Pedal & Paddle Tavern, Milwaukee
This bicycle-powered party or paddle-powered boat takes you to the best bars, a great way to socialize while on an epic tour. Three paddle boats (with a 14-person capacity each) and two Duffy boats (with a 12-person capacity each) accommodate 66 on water; six bikes with a 16-person capacity each fit 96.
milwaukeepedalandpaddletavern.com
- Titletown District, Green Bay
Welcome your guests to Titletown, a new space just west of Lambeau Field. It’s perfect for playing, eating and relaxing. Featuring a large public park with outdoor games, fitness activities, and a winter skating rink and tubing hill, Titletown also includes Lodge Kohler, a Topgolf Swing Suite, and spaces for one-of-a-kind meetings and events.
- Copper Crow Distillery, Bayfield
Step into the distillery of the first indigenous distiller in North America to craft 10 award-winning spirits. Discover a haven of flavor in the tasting room just off the shores of Lake Superior. With a vibrant atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it’s the perfect spot to let the good times flow!
- Whistling Straits Golf Course, Sheboygan
Whistling Straits is a 36-hole links-style golf course associated with Destination Kohler. Or reserve Kohler Swing Studio & Golf Shop to enjoy the simulator — there’s open golf, contests, arcade games, live sporting events, presentations and more.
destinationkohler.com/golf/whistling-straits
- Norwood Pines Supper Club, Minocqua
Norwood Pines delivers the relaxed elegance of one of northern Wisconsin’s oldest and finest supper clubs. Surrounded by red pines, you will be treated to views of Patricia Lake as well as whitetail deer. Depending on the season, you may enjoy dining on the newly remodeled screened-in porch or a cozy seat next to the fireplace.
- Yerkes Observatory, Williams Bay
Yerkes Observatory is the birthplace of modern astrophysics and an architectural masterpiece on 50 acres of Frederick Law Olmsted-designed ecological splendor. Since 1897, it has been the home and school of famous astronomers, Nobel prize winners and renowned scientists, but now it’s open for public tours, private events, observing nights, star parties and more. Tour guides discuss its history and architecture, astronomers and astrophysicists, and ongoing restoration and preservation.
- Madison Museum Of Contemporary Art, Madison
An independent organization that exhibits, collects and preserves modern and contemporary art, the museum strives to provide transformative experiences that educate, reflect and inspire. Located in the heart of downtown, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art combines world-class art and stunning architecture for a venue unlike any other. You can book private guided tours of the museum’s exhibitions for six or more adults. Furthermore, several sophisticated spaces — such as the Rooftop Sculpture Garden, the Lobby and the Lecture Hall — are available to host a wide variety of inspiring events.
- Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee
Fiserv Forum’s 90-minute tour will educate you on the Milwaukee Bucks’ storied past and electrifying present, including winning the 2020-21 NBA Championship, leaving you inspired about the future. Plus, group seating options are available for many concerts and shows, like Monster Jam, Harlem Globetrotters and more.
