When it comes to cheese, Wisconsin isn’t just another state—it’s practically a country of its own! Known as “America’s Dairyland,” Wisconsin is synonymous with top-tier cheese, producing more varieties and awarding-winning cheeses than anywhere else in the United States. From the rolling pastures that nurture contented cows to the passionate cheesemakers who’ve been honing their craft for generations, Wisconsin has made itself a must-visit destination for cheese aficionados. Embarking on a cheese tour here isn’t just about sampling delicious flavors; it’s about experiencing the heritage, techniques, and love that goes into every wheel, wedge, and block.

Here’s a guide to taking the ultimate cheese tour through Wisconsin, complete with tips on the best stops, the must-try varieties, and a few scenic views along the way.

Madison: Wisconsin’s Capital of Cheese Culture

Begin your journey in Madison, a vibrant city that boasts a blend of university culture, farmers markets, and artisan shops. Stop by Fromagination, located just off Capitol Square, where you’ll find a curated selection of Wisconsin’s best cheeses along with locally made crackers, preserves, and charcuterie. Fromagination isn’t just a cheese shop; it’s a cultural experience that celebrates Wisconsin’s dairy heritage. The knowledgeable staff can offer tasting suggestions and introduce you to local producers, making it a great orientation before heading to the creameries.

If you’re lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, check out the Dane County Farmers' Market. It’s the largest producer-only farmers' market in the country, and local cheesemakers often set up booths, selling everything from squeaky cheese curds to aged cheddars.

New Glarus: A Swiss-Style Cheese Haven

Less than an hour from Madison, you’ll find New Glarus, a small town with a big Swiss influence. Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus is home to cheesemakers specializing in traditional Swiss varieties. Emmi Roth USA is one such creamery company that crafts award-winning cheeses like Grand Cru (an alpine-style cheese) and decadent aged Gruyère. While Emmi Roth doesn't offer public tours, you can find their cheeses at local markets and shops.

In town, stop by Maple Leaf Cheese and Chocolate Haus, where you can sample Swiss favorites alongside locally made chocolates. New Glarus Brewing, famous for its Spotted Cow ale, is nearby, offering another local favorite to pair with your cheese tasting.

Monroe: The Heart of Wisconsin’s Cheese Country

Continue south to Monroe, the undisputed “Cheese Capital of the U.S.” Monroe is home to some of Wisconsin’s oldest cheesemakers and hosts the biennial Green County Cheese Days, where you can witness cheesemaking demonstrations, parades, and taste endless cheese samples. Even if you visit outside of festival season, Monroe still has a lot to offer.

One iconic stop is the National Historic Cheesemaking Center, where you’ll get a glimpse into the history and evolution of Wisconsin cheese. Next, head to Alp and Dell Cheese Store, where you’ll find an extensive selection of Wisconsin cheeses, including hard-to-find varieties and fresh curds (be sure to eat them while they’re still squeaky!). This shop is connected to Emmi Roth Käserei Cheese Factory, where you can sometimes observe the cheesemaking process firsthand.

Sample Artisan Varieties in Dodgeville at Uplands Cheese

Next, head west to Dodgeville for a visit to Uplands Cheese, a small artisan creamery with a big reputation. Uplands is famous for its Pleasant Ridge Reserve, an alpine-style cheese made exclusively with summer milk when cows are grazing on fresh pastures. This cheese is often hailed as one of the best in America, winning numerous awards. Another seasonal favorite is their Rush Creek Reserve, a soft, creamy cheese wrapped in spruce bark that becomes available in fall and winter.

Uplands doesn’t have a storefront or regular tours, but you can buy their cheeses at various markets and cheese shops across the state. If you’re visiting in fall, call ahead to arrange a tasting and sample their cheeses directly from the source.

La Crosse: Cheese Along the Great River Road

After Dodgeville, make your way to La Crosse on the Mississippi River for a scenic route along Wisconsin’s Great River Road, where you’ll encounter picturesque views and small-town charm. Here, you can stop at Nordic Creamery in Westby, which is known for its award-winning butter and aged cheeses. The creamery offers a variety of flavored cheeses, from garlic cheddar to Italian-style Montague, perfect for those who enjoy a little twist on the classics.

In La Crosse, pay a visit to Cabin Coffee Co., where you can enjoy a cheese plate featuring local varieties alongside a specialty coffee or locally brewed beer. A picnic by the river with these treats makes for an idyllic afternoon.

Cranberry Country: Wausau’s Family-Owned Cheese Gems

Your next stop brings you to the Wausau area, nestled near Wisconsin’s cranberry bogs. Henson’s Country Foods is a standout, family-owned cheese shop with a fantastic selection of handcrafted cheeses. They’re known for their cranberry cheddar—a unique Wisconsin specialty—as well as a variety of flavored cheese spreads, a local staple.

For another small-town gem, drive to nearby Mullins Cheese in Mosinee. Mullins is Wisconsin’s largest family-owned cheese factory and specializes in mozzarella, cheddar, and, of course, cheese curds. Mullins’ cheese curds are a standout, offering the squeaky, fresh texture that Wisconsin locals swear by.

Door County: A Relaxing Cheese and Wine Finale

Finish your tour in Door County, Wisconsin’s beautiful lakeside getaway. The region is best known for its cherry orchards and vineyards, but it’s also home to some fantastic cheese stops. Visit Renard’s Cheese in Sturgeon Bay, where you’ll find a variety of aged cheddars, cheese curds, and even a cranberry-studded cheddar that pairs perfectly with Door County wine.

For a more immersive experience, stop by Door Artisan Cheese Company in Egg Harbor. The cheesemakers here create everything from creamy Brie to complex, aged blues, and the on-site restaurant, Glacier Ledge, serves up cheese boards and wine pairings, making it the perfect spot to wind down after a busy day of tastings.

Tips for the Ultimate Cheese Tour Experience

  • Plan for Weekdays: Many smaller creameries offer tours and tastings only on weekdays, so plan accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out.
  • Pack a Cooler: Wisconsin cheese travels well, but bringing a cooler allows you to keep everything fresh and ensures you’ll be able to bring home a taste of your journey.
  • Try the Curds Fresh: Wisconsin cheese curds are best enjoyed fresh, with a characteristic squeak that fades after a day or two. Try them at every stop if you can—they’re addictively good.
  • Pair Wisely: Wisconsin’s craft breweries are the perfect complement to a cheese tour. Many cheesemakers and shops offer recommendations on the best local beers to enjoy alongside your favorite cheeses.

Wrapping Up Your Wisconsin Cheese Adventure

Taking a cheese tour of Wisconsin is more than just tasting delicious cheese; it’s an exploration of the state’s rich dairy heritage and the dedication of its cheesemakers. From tiny farmstead operations to large creameries that supply stores nationwide, each stop on your journey offers a unique flavor of Wisconsin’s landscape and history. So, grab a map, set your GPS, and let Wisconsin’s winding roads lead you through fields of contented cows, across charming small towns, and into the heart of America’s Dairyland.