How to become a travel agent in Wisconsin
If you have a passion for travel and enjoy helping others plan their dream trips, becoming a travel agent in Wisconsin could be the perfect career for you. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to build a fulfilling business and earn a flexible income by booking travel arrangements for clients. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
In becoming a travel agent, it's important to know travel trends for customers in your area. Click here to learn more about travel trends in Wisconsin.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a travel agent in Wisconsin.
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There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
A travel agent in Wisconsin plans and books travel for clients, which includes booking flights, accommodations, organizing activities, and excursions. Leveraging your local knowledge of Wisconsin can be a significant advantage, allowing you to plan unique trips such as foodie tours of Milwaukee or games at Lambeau Field. The role involves understanding clients' vacation needs and handling all the travel arrangements efficiently.
No Formal Education Required
Unlike many other careers, becoming a travel agent in Wisconsin does not require a formal travel agent certification or a bachelor’s degree. However, having a high school diploma or GED is beneficial. While formal education is not mandatory, acquiring the right skills and training is crucial for success in this field.
Essential Skills
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in Wisconsin and anywhere in the US!
Our Suppliers ListTo excel as a travel agent, you need to possess several key skills, including organizational, problem-solving, interpersonal, and research skills. These skills will help you manage client relationships effectively, handle bookings efficiently, and stay updated on industry trends.
Joining a Host Agency
In most cases, independent travel agents in Wisconsin work with a host business. A host business provides essential resources such as access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and an IATA number, which is necessary for earning commissions on travel bookings. Host agencies like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro offer comprehensive training programs and ongoing support to help you succeed in your career.
Training and Certification
While certification is not compulsory, it is highly recommended. Training programs offered by institutions like the University of Wisconsin Whitewater, Mid-State Technical College, and Fox Valley Technical College can equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Programs like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro’s initial certification, which includes 40+ hours of live training and access to recordings, can be particularly beneficial. Certifications from the American Society of Travel Advisors and the International Air Transport Association can also enhance your career prospects.
Earning Money as a Travel Agent
As a travel agent in Wisconsin, you earn money through commissions paid by partners such as hotels and cruise lines. You can also charge planning fees. The flexible schedule allows you to work full-time or part-time, aligning with your lifestyle. Building a strong client base and leveraging marketing tools provided by your host business can significantly impact your earnings.
Building Your Business
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
To grow your business, you need to focus on building your client base, networking with other travel professionals, and staying updated on industry trends. Utilizing marketing tools, attending travel industry events, and leveraging your personal network are key strategies. Host agencies often provide marketing training and tools to help you attract and retain clients.
A Rewarding Career Path
Becoming a travel agent in Wisconsin offers a rewarding career path with flexibility and autonomy. Whether you choose to work with a host business or set up your own business, the potential to build a personalized brand in the travel industry is vast. With the right training, support, and dedication, you can turn your passion for travel into a successful and fulfilling career.
As a travel agent in Wisconsin, your primary role involves planning and booking travel arrangements for clients. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including understanding clients' vacation needs, handling all travel arrangements, and ensuring every aspect of the trip is well-organized. Your duties will include booking flights, arranging accommodations, and organizing activities and excursions that align with your clients' preferences.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Leveraging your local knowledge of Wisconsin can be a significant advantage in your role as a travel agent. You can plan unique and personalized trips that highlight the best of what Wisconsin has to offer. For instance, you might organize foodie tours of Milwaukee, plan visits to the iconic Lambeau Field, or recommend scenic routes through the Wisconsin Dells. Your insider knowledge can make your travel packages stand out and provide an authentic experience for your clients.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
Local knowledge is invaluable when it comes to planning trips. It allows you to create itineraries that are not only enjoyable but also reflective of the local culture and hidden gems that only a local would know.
Client services are at the heart of your role as a travel agent. You will be responsible for booking flights, securing accommodations, and organizing a variety of activities and excursions. This involves using your research skills to find the best deals and options that meet your clients' needs and budget. Effective communication is also crucial, as you need to ensure that all details are clearly understood and agreed upon by your clients.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Flight Booking | Securing the best flight options based on client preferences and budget. |
| Accommodation Booking | Booking hotels, resorts, or other accommodations that meet client needs. |
| Activity Planning | Organizing activities, excursions, and tours that enhance the travel experience. |
Your ability to provide comprehensive client services will not only ensure client satisfaction but also build your reputation as a reliable and competent travel agent.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
To become a travel agent in Wisconsin, you do not need a formal college degree, but having a high school diploma or GED is highly beneficial. This foundational education provides a solid base for understanding and navigating the various aspects of the travel industry. It also prepares you for the structured learning and training programs that you may choose to pursue later in your career.
To excel as a travel agent, you need to possess a set of essential skills that will help you manage your role effectively. Here are some of the key skills required:
Organizational Skills: These skills are crucial for managing multiple client bookings, keeping track of travel schedules, and ensuring all details are in order. A well-organized travel agent can handle multiple tasks efficiently and reduce the likelihood of errors.
Problem-Solving Skills: Travel plans can sometimes go awry due to unforeseen circumstances like flight cancellations or accommodation issues. Strong problem-solving skills enable you to handle these situations professionally and find quick, effective solutions that satisfy your clients.
Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with clients is vital for a travel agent. Good interpersonal skills help you understand client needs, communicate effectively, and provide personalized service that keeps clients coming back.
Research Skills: The ability to research and find the best travel options, deals, and destinations is essential. This skill helps you stay updated on industry trends, new travel opportunities, and any changes in travel regulations or policies.
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Organizational Skills | Managing client bookings, schedules, and details efficiently. |
| Problem-Solving Skills | Handling unexpected issues and finding quick solutions. |
| Interpersonal Skills | Building strong client relationships through effective communication. |
| Research Skills | Finding the best travel options, deals, and staying updated on industry trends. |
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.By developing these skills, you can ensure a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
If you are looking to gain formal training and education to become a travel agent in Wisconsin, there are several reputable programs available. The University of Wisconsin Whitewater offers an online travel agent training program, which is highly convenient and flexible. This program consists of 100 course hours of instruction, allowing you to learn at your own pace and enroll at any time that suits you.
Another excellent option is Mid-State Technical College, which offers an Associate in Applied Science program in Hospitality Management. This program covers key topics such as aviation and ground transportation, lodging, planning, and customer service. It also focuses on essential soft skills like interpersonal communication, written communication, and entrepreneurial foundations.
Mid-State Technical College: The Hospitality Management program is a thorough and well-rounded education that prepares you for a successful career in the travel industry.
Fox Valley Technical College is another top choice, providing a solid foundation in the principles of travel and hospitality. These programs are designed to equip you with the technical skills and business acumen necessary to succeed as a travel agent.
| Program | Institution | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Online Travel Agent Training | University of Wisconsin Whitewater | 100 course hours, flexible enrollment |
| Hospitality Management | Mid-State Technical College | Covers aviation, lodging, planning, and customer service |
| Travel and Hospitality Program | Fox Valley Technical College | Provides technical skills and business acumen |
Online certification programs are an efficient way to start your career as a travel agent in Wisconsin. These programs are affiliated with local schools and offer several benefits. They prepare you for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification exam and provide all the essential knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in travel.
These programs are designed to be comprehensive, covering all aspects of the travel industry, from customer service to advanced booking systems and marketing strategies. By completing an online certification program, you gain a competitive edge and increase your chances of being hired by a host business or starting your own travel business.
A typical travel agent training program in Wisconsin can last between 4 to 6 months, with a minimum of 100 hours of instruction. This duration ensures that you receive thorough training and are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of a travel agent.
A 100-hour program can be completed in 4 to 6 months, depending on the pace of the course. This includes both live training sessions and access to recorded materials, allowing for flexible learning.
Program Length Details
Comprehensive Curriculum: These programs cover a wide range of topics, from industry basics to advanced skills, ensuring you are fully prepared for your role as a travel agent.
| Program Duration | Hours of Instruction | Learning Format |
|---|---|---|
| 4 to 6 months | 100 hours | Live sessions and recorded materials |
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.By investing in formal training and education, you set yourself up for success in the travel industry, gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to build a fulfilling and profitable career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
Certification is highly valued in the travel industry, and it can significantly enhance your career prospects as a travel agent in Wisconsin. Both employers and clients prefer certified travel agents because it demonstrates a level of expertise and commitment to the profession. Certification shows that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide high-quality services, which can lead to greater trust and confidence from your clients.
There are several certifications available that can help you stand out as a travel agent in Wisconsin. One of the most recognized certifications is the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) certification, which is designed to test your knowledge and skills in the travel industry. This certification is often offered through various training programs and prepares you for the TAP certification exam.
TAP Certification: This certification demonstrates your proficiency in areas such as customer service, booking systems, and destination knowledge.
Another valuable certification is the one offered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA ASTA certifications, such as the Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), Certified Travel Associate (CTA), and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE), are highly respected in the industry and can further validate your qualifications.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) | Tests knowledge and skills in the travel industry. |
| American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) | Offers certifications like CTC, CTA, and CTIE. |
| International Air Transport Association (IATA) | Provides certifications related to airline ticketing and travel operations. |
Maintaining your certifications is crucial to keep your skills up-to-date and to comply with industry standards. Most certifications require continuing education to ensure that you stay current with industry trends and changes. For example, the TAP certification and ASTA certifications require periodic renewal through continuing education courses, which can include advanced training programs, partner and destination trainings, and other professional development opportunities.
Continuing education courses help you stay updated on industry trends and changes. These courses can include advanced training programs, partner and destination trainings, and other professional development opportunities.
Continuing Education Details
By committing to ongoing education, you not only maintain your certifications but also enhance your expertise and reputation as a professional travel agent in Wisconsin.
As an independent travel agent in Wisconsin, working with a host business is a crucial step in establishing and growing your business. A host business provides a plethora of resources that are essential for your success. These resources include access to advanced booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and an IATA number, which is necessary for earning commissions on the travel you book.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Booking Systems | Advanced systems for booking flights, accommodations, and activities. |
| Partner Programs | Access to partner programs with airlines, hotels, and other travel suppliers. |
| Marketing Support | Tools and assistance for marketing your services to potential clients. |
| IATA Number | A unique identifier necessary for earning commissions on travel bookings. |
Selecting the right host business is a critical decision for your career as a travel agent. You need to consider several factors, such as the level of support provided, the range of resources available, and the reputation of the host business. For instance, a host business like Vincent Vacations or Travel Agent Pro offers comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and a strong community of travel agents, which can be highly beneficial for your growth.
Host Agency Reputation: Choose a host business with a good reputation and strong industry connections to ensure you have access to the best resources and support.
The support provided by a host business is invaluable for independent travel agents. It offers a one-stop shop with everything you need to get started and succeed in your business. The training programs, marketing support, and access to booking systems and partner programs help you build a strong foundation and grow your client base. Additionally, the community support and ongoing training opportunities ensure you stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
Comprehensive training programs to get you started. Ongoing support and community engagement. Access to advanced booking systems and partner programs. Marketing tools and assistance to attract clients.
Benefits of Host Agency Support
By joining a host business, you gain the tools, resources, and support necessary to build a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
In Wisconsin, there are no specific state-level licensing requirements for becoming a travel agent. This means you do not need to obtain a license from the state to start your career as a travel agent. However, other aspects of your business may still need to comply with state regulations.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.While there is no licensing requirement, registering your business is a crucial step. If you plan to operate as a travel agent in Wisconsin, you will need to register your business with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. This involves obtaining any necessary business registrations, such as registering as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.
Business Registration: Registering your business ensures you comply with state tax laws and other regulatory requirements.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Choose a Business Structure | Decide whether to register as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. |
| Register with the Department of Revenue | Complete the necessary forms and submit them to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. |
| Obtain Any Necessary Permits | Ensure you have all required permits and licenses to operate your business. |
In addition to registering your business, you must also comply with the Wisconsin Seller of Travel Law. This involves registering with the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, reporting any changes in contact information or designated representatives, and following rules regarding commission sharing.
Register with the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. Report changes in contact information or designated representatives within 30 days. Follow rules regarding commission sharing to comply with state statutes.
Compliance with Seller of Travel Law
By ensuring your business is properly registered and compliant with all relevant laws, you can establish a strong foundation for your career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
Fox World Travel offers a unique and beneficial paid training program for those interested in becoming travel agents in Wisconsin. The Vacation Travel Associate Training Program is an eight-week intensive course that provides comprehensive training to prepare you for a career as a travel agent. During this program, you are hired as a full-time, paid associate from the very start, allowing you to earn while you learn.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Eight weeks |
| Training Format | In-person training with the option to work in physical branch locations in Wisconsin after completion |
| Compensation | Paid training from the start |
This program builds a foundation for long-term career development in the vacation travel industry, covering essential topics such as customer service, booking systems, and industry best practices. Upon successfully completing the training, you will be well-equipped to work in one of Fox World Travel’s physical branch locations in Wisconsin.
Comprehensive Training: The program includes seminars on foundational topics, ensuring you have all the skills necessary to run a successful travel advisor business.
Besides Fox World Travel’s program, there are other paid training opportunities available in Wisconsin that can help you launch your career as a travel agent. For example, Disney Magical Vacations offers a free online training course, but it is not paid. However, some host agencies and travel companies provide paid training or stipends as part of their recruitment and training processes.
Some host agencies offer paid training or stipends as part of their programs. These opportunities can vary and may include a combination of online and in-person training.
Other Training Opportunities
When exploring these options, it is important to look for programs that offer a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Many of these programs are designed to get you started quickly and provide ongoing support to ensure your success in the travel industry.
By taking advantage of these paid training opportunities, you can gain the skills and experience needed to build a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
The salary range for travel agents in Wisconsin can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific employer or host business. On average, a travel agent in Wisconsin can expect to earn around $45,000 to $50,000 per year. According to various sources, the salary ranges are as follows: $37,380 (CareerExplorer), $44,110 (ZipRecruiter), and $45,050 (Bureau of Labor Statistics
| Source | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| CareerExplorer | $37,380 |
| ZipRecruiter | $44,110 |
| Bureau of Labor Statistics | $45,050 ($21.66 per hour) |
| Indeed.com | $45,663 |
| SalaryExpert.com | $57,890 |
As a travel agent in Wisconsin, you have several opportunities for career growth and specialization. One of the key ways to advance your career is through continuous education and certification. Certifications like the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) or those offered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) can significantly enhance your career prospects and open up new opportunities.
Specialization: You can specialize in specific types of travel, such as luxury travel, corporate travel, or niche markets like adventure travel or destination weddings.
Joining a host business that offers ongoing training and support can also facilitate career growth. Many host agencies provide advanced training programs, partner and destination trainings, and marketing support that help you stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
Continuous education through certification programs. Specialization in specific types of travel. Ongoing training and support from host agencies. Opportunities for leadership roles or starting your own travel business.
Career Growth Opportunities
In addition to these opportunities, you can also consider taking on leadership roles within your host business or even starting your own travel business. The flexibility and autonomy of being a travel agent allow for a wide range of career paths and growth opportunities.
By leveraging these opportunities, you can build a fulfilling and successful career as a travel agent in Wisconsin, with the potential for significant growth and specialization.
Becoming a travel agent in Wisconsin is an exciting and rewarding career path that combines your passion for travel with the satisfaction of helping others create unforgettable experiences. From understanding the role of a travel agent to navigating the steps of formal training, certification, and business registration, you are now well-equipped to embark on this fulfilling journey.
The key to success lies in choosing the right host business, investing in comprehensive training programs, and staying updated with industry trends through continuous education. Certifications such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) and those offered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) can significantly enhance your career prospects and client trust.
Continuous Learning: The travel industry is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to stay updated with the latest trends and best practices to remain competitive and provide exceptional service to your clients.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Host Agency | Join a reputable host business for resources and support. |
| Training Programs | Participate in comprehensive training programs. |
| Certification | Obtain relevant certifications to enhance your credentials. |
| Continuous Education | Stay updated with industry trends and best practices. |
By leveraging your local knowledge of Wisconsin, you can create unique and personalized travel packages that stand out, whether it's a foodie tour of Milwaukee or a visit to Lambeau Field. Your passion for travel, combined with the right training and support, will enable you to build a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
Leverage your local knowledge to create unique travel packages.
Focus on building strong client relationships through excellent customer service.
Stay connected with industry updates and best practices.
As you begin this exciting journey, remember that the travel industry is not just about booking flights and accommodations; it's about creating memorable experiences for your clients. With dedication, hard work, and the right resources, you can turn your passion into a successful and rewarding career as a travel agent in Wisconsin.
🚀 Start your journey today and watch your dreams of becoming a successful travel agent in Wisconsin take flight ✈️
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Our favorite coffee culture is in Wisconsin. Not lattes and cappuccinos, just good cups of strong hospitality that go hand-in-hand with our favorite memories of the state: sitting on the porch of a lakeside cabin, blowing steam into the cool air; pouring from a Thermos while floating in a canoe on a serene lake; washing down some homemade pie. Coffee isn't about waking up in Wisconsin. It's a way of slowing down and enjoying what's around you.
And there's plenty to enjoy: The scenery ranges from dramatic river bluffs, abundant forests, Great Lakes, lesser lakes and rolling pastures full of cattle. Milwaukee mixes fine museums with its blue-collar factories, and some fairly small towns—Spring Green and Richland Center—are graced by the architectural wonders of native son Frank Lloyd Wright.
Long before the era of modern architecture, Native Americans of the Effigy Mound Culture (AD 500—1100) created great earthen figures of birds, animals and people. Many of them can still be seen today. The Menominee, Winnebago and Dakota peoples were also residents of what's become present-day Wisconsin.
Europeans first saw Wisconsin in 1634, when French explorer Jean Nicolet entered the territory. For more than a century, French missionaries and fur traders worked in the area. During that time, other Native Americans moved into Wisconsin fleeing wars in the east. The Ojibwe, Sauk, Fox, Huron, Kickapoo, Ottawa and Potawatomi were among these migrants, and their arrival instigated battles with the tribes that were already living in the area.
France lost its North American holdings to the British in 1763, and the English kept their hold on the region for the next 50 years. Even though much of the Great Lakes area officially came under U.S. jurisdiction after the Revolutionary War, it wasn't until the end of the War of 1812 that the British finally withdrew. The Native Americans of the region violently resisted the increasing incursions by settlers, but the Black Hawk War of 1832 put an end to organized opposition. As more newcomers arrived, the state's economy began to diversify: The fur trade was still lucrative, but lead mining and agriculture became more important. The growth in population led to statehood in 1848.
Wisconsin, the birthplace of the antislavery Republican Party, was foursquare for the Union in the Civil War. The state's first industrial giants were the owners of the huge lumber companies that felled the northern forests, and beer production became important in Wisconsin after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed that city's breweries. European immigration from the mid-1800s to 1920 provided the workforce that contributed to the growth of the state's industrial base, which soon included heavy manufacturing, dairy production, ironworking and tanning. The cultural and religious practices of the newcomers—largely Germans, Norwegians and Poles—still remain ingrained in Wisconsin's smaller communities.
Although small, family-run dairy farms still exist in Wisconsin, they continue to decline as larger corporate farms increase their holdings. Key crops include corn, soybeans, cranberries, oats, beets, beans, carrots and potatoes. Although California now produces more milk, Wisconsin remains the nation's top cheese maker. In the north, paper manufacturing is king; and food processing, machinery manufacturing and meatpacking are major employers in Milwaukee. Recent decades have seen a significant shift from manufacturing to service employment—tourism is Wisconsin's second-largest industry. Technology is really just beginning to play a major role in the state's economy. Medical-equipment manufacturing is a rising sector in Milwaukee, and biotech companies are fueling growth in the Madison area.
Wisconsin's main attractions include biking, birding, canoeing, hiking, Door County sightseeing, Milwaukee, brewery and winery tours, fishing, hunting, sailing, cheese-factory tours, the Great River Road, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Madison, Native American culture, boating, camping, skiing, train excursions and snowmobiling.
Tavelers interested in a relaxing vacation with outdoor activities, inspiring natural beauty and friendly people will have a great time in Wisconsin. Most visitors will find something to enjoy there, but they should be aware that Wisconsin's beauty is that of hills, bluffs and dells, rather than dramatic mountains and valleys.
The Green Bay Packers are the only professional football team that's a nonprofit, publicly held corporation. The corporation's structure limits the amount of shares one person can hold and prohibits the selling of shares for a profit. These measures have helped the team keep a community focus, which is rare in the big-money sports world. Home games are consistently sold out, and the waiting list for season tickets is several decades long. Many people will their season tickets to the next generation.
Scuba divers along the Wisconsin shore of Lake Superior have begun pulling up logs that sank in the lake more than 100 years ago. The logs, cut from Wisconsin's legendary old-growth forests, have been kept perfectly intact by Lake Superior's icy waters. A company in Ashland reclaims the fine-grained wood for use in custom furniture and cabinetry.
The Hamburger Hall of Fame is found in Seymour. The first inductee, Charles Nagreen, is the person who had the brilliant idea of flattening a meatball and making it into a sandwich. He did it in 1885.
Move over, Jonah: Visitors can walk through a four-story muskie fish at the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward.
The leisure practice of inner-tubing down the Apple River (beer can in hand) has given Somerset the nickname "tubing capital of the world."
When you're in Door County, look for the houses that still have the traditional sod roofs. Goats are sometimes placed on them to keep the grass trimmed.
The state boasts several interesting capitals: Bloomer is the jump-rope capital of the U.S., Berlin is the fur-and-leather capital, Ellsworth is the cheese-curd capital, Mount Horeb is the troll capital of the world, Sauk-Prairie is the cow-chip-throwing capital, Monroe is the Swiss-cheese capital and Lake Tomahawk is the snowshoe-baseball capital of the world. Other Wisconsin towns boast unusual slogans: Ettrick claims to be "Fun City, USA," Beaver Dam is the "Home of 15,000 Busy Beavers," Lodi is the "Home of Susie the Duck," Babcock is "Where the Last Passenger Pigeon Was Killed" and Sparta is "Home of the Big Fiberglass Animals." (Please note that we have not verified these claims.)
The Ice-Age National Scientific Reserve has five units across the state. Each unit has trails that will take you through geological reminders of the glaciers that once covered the state. There's also an Ice-Age Interpretive Center in St. Croix Falls and the Henry S. Reuss Ice Age Visitors Center in Campbellsport.
As you pass through Jacksonport in Door County, note that you are on the 45th parallel, exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole.
In Door County restaurants, you may be served booyah, a hearty stew of chicken, beef and vegetables brought to the state by Walloon-speaking Belgian immigrants. Booyah is said to derive from the Walloon term meaning "to boil."
The world-famous Mustard Museum is located in Mount Horeb, 20 mi/32 km southwest of Madison. Mustard enthusiasts and curious tourists tour and sample curator Barry Levenson's collection and attend the National Mustard Day celebration each summer. The museum was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show and was once the answer to a Jeopardy question.
An area of towering sandstone cliffs (up to 150 ft/45 m tall) along the Wisconsin River 100 mi/160 km northwest of Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Dells has been a popular travel attraction since the 1800s.
Nature has been joined by man-made attractions, making this a bustling tourism center that draws big crowds in the summer. Not everyone will care for the commercialized atmosphere, but many love it. Wisconsin Dells is especially popular with families, who find plenty to do.
If you want pure scenic beauty, you'll find it on one of the boat tours of the Dells, which give you a close-up look at the sandstone formations. There are two sections—the Upper and Lower Dells—which are separated by a dam, so you have to take two boat rides to see the whole area. The tour of the Upper Dells includes stops where you can hike on riverside nature trails. You can also see the river in one of the Wisconsin Ducks, amphibious vehicles from World War II.
On land, there's a profusion of entertainment venues. Among the choices: the Tommy Bartlett Thrill Exploratory Interactive Science Center, Noah's Ark Waterpark, Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park and Timbavatil Wildlife Park. There's also a motor speedway, a Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, a wax museum, the Ho-Chunk Gaming casino, and the Wisconsin Opry (country-music concerts).
Though summer is definitely peak season at the Dells, the indoor water parks and some other attractions remain open all year. A profusion of indoor water-park resorts—many of which reserve admission to guests—offer additional indoor attractions, including the Wilderness Resort (laser tag), Kalahari Resort (indoor "surfing") and Great Wolf Lodge (a four-story play structure with video-game theme).
There are some less frenetic sights in the area, as well: The enterprising 19th-century photographer H.H. Bennett first brought the Dells to the world's attention with his work. Today, his well-preserved studio is open to the public as a museum (weekends only, summer to mid-October). Many visitors to the Dells often lodge or camp at nearby Devil's Lake State Park, a sanctuary of noncommercialized splendor that has high bluffs surrounding a large lake. It's one of the few spots to rock climb in the state. Rocky Arbor State Park is another possibility for camping and it too has impressive sandstone cliffs.
The Great Wisconsin Dells Balloon Rally, a hot-air-balloon event, takes place in June.
In Baraboo, between Devil's Lake and the Dells, there are two must-sees: the headquarters of the International Crane Foundation, which has living examples of every kind of crane found in the world, and the Circus World Museum, which has exhibits of old circus equipment as well as summer big-top performances (Baraboo is the birthplace of the Ringling Brothers Circus). Be sure to see the flea circuses, which present some amazing insect feats.
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Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
We know Europe! Paris, London, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Swiss Alps, Prague, Amsterdam, Venice, Athens, Vienna, Madrid, let's go!
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Get A Free QuoteWe serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own. All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US! Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team. We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service. We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group. Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
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