Unearthing Wisconsin's Hidden Wonders: Discover the Playful, Outdoorsy and Resilient Spirit of Americas Dairyland

Wisconsin is a treasure trove of hidden curiosities that tell tales of its friendly midwestern charm, rural outdoorsy appeal, innovative spirit and unwavering resilience. Much like the intricate narratives woven by Pulitzer Prizewinning historians David Donald, Robert Caro and Richard Rhodes, this list uncovers lesserknown moments from Wisconsin's history which offer glimpses into the traditions that capture its essence.

1) The House on Rock (5754 State Road 23,

Spring Green, WI 53588):

Nestled atop a breathtaking landscape in Spring Green lies a testament to one man's quixotic dream. Alex Jordan Jr.'s peculiar creation The House on the Rock houses some outlandish oddities such as the worlds largest indoor carousel with over 100 elaborately handcarved animals; but surprisngly no horses! A mustsee for any adventureseeker or fan of Neil Gaiman's novel American Gods, which features this mesmerizing location.

2) Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik (10698 N Bay Shore Dr,

Sister Bay, WI 54234):

Bearing authentic Scandinavian traditions at heart amidst idyllic Door County landscapes sits Al Johnsons Swedish Restaurant & Butik. What sets this eatery apart is not just their mouthwatering dishes like traditional Swedish meatballs or sweet lingonberries but rather their rooftop residents goats! That's right you'll find real goats happily grazing upon a sod roof which harks back to old Nordic architecture.

3) Dr. Evermors Forevertron Sculpture Park (S7703 US Highway 12,

Sumpter Township North Freedom

WI 53951):

Tom Every aka 'Dr.Evermor' paid homage to Jules Vernes vision of futuristic technology with his whimsical creation The Forevertron, which is currently the world's largest scrap metal sculpture. Situated in Sumpter Township, Wisconsin, this steampunk paradise nods to an innovative and playful spirit that would make Leonardo da Vinci himself proud.

4) Rhinelander Hodag (450 W Kemp St,

Rhinelander, WI 54501):

The mythical beast the Hodag has captured local residents' imaginations since its roaring entry into folklore in 1896. A tribute to Wisconsins resilience and sense of humor lies within Rhinelander, where a largerthanlife statue commemorates this creature. And if you're lucky enough to catch their annual festival Hodag Country Fest, you'd feel the rhythm of rural celebration liven up those picturesque woods.

5) Concrete Park (N8236 State Highway 13,

Phillips, WI 54555):

In Phillips stands Concrete Park a historical concrete paradise created by selftaught artist Fred Smith between 19481964 before pop art took center stage! This collection consists of over 230 sculptures made using recycled materials like empty beer bottles embedded into wet cement; highlighting not only an invigorating craftsmanship but also early strides towards sustainability and preservation.

To further explore these lesserknown wonders or learn more about upcoming events across America's Dairyland:

Websites:

1) House on Rock: www.thehouseontherock.com

2) Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik: www.aljohnsons.com

3) Dr Evermors Forevertron Sculpture Park: www.worldofdrevermor.com

4) Rhinelander Hodag: www.rhinelanderchamber.com

5) Concrete Park: www.friendsoffredsmith.org

Twitter Handles:

@HouseOnRock @AlJohnsonsSwedishRestaurantButik @DrEvermorsForevertron @RhinelanderHodag @ConcretePark