Top Wisconsin Historical Tours

Milwaukee is a city shaped by its waterways, its waves of immigrants, and its bold spirit-famous for its German heritage, its brewing traditions, and its knack for reinvention over nearly two centuries. Our journey today starts at Wisconsin Historical Marker three three three, which marks the heart of old Kilbourntown, walk through stories of rivalry, resilience, and remarkable change, all the way to the bustling Milwaukee Public Market in the Historic Third Ward. Go at your own pace. The tour never expires. This is a hand free experience, press play and put your phone in your pocket. The tour is location aware, and plays as you walk. It never expires.

Unveil the dark history of Brew City with this ghost tour of the city’s most haunted locations. Meet your guide for a ghoul-fueled stroll through the heart of Milwaukee to take in spirit-infested historic hotels, theaters, and even skyscrapers. Be entertained by bone-chilling ghost stories and tales of paranormal activity as you delve into Milwaukee’s ghoulish past.

Prebook this Grohmann Museum Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket to bypass the lines at the museum on the busy school campus and head inside to explore its collections and exhibits. The museum showcases the art of labor, engineering, and human achievement while and offering a unique display you won’t find anywhere else. This admission ticket is perfect for groups that want to explore but who are also on a budget.

Milwaukee is known for its beer, brats, baseball, and lakefront scenery, but it offers much more than most travelers realize. Learn about the city through the eyes of a resident guide on this Milwaukee sightseeing tour, see famous attractions, trendy neighborhoods, an art-filled alley, and so much more—including a bronze statue of the Fonz of “Happy Days” fame.

As seen on BBC, NBC, and featured on Netflix’s Dark Tourist, this is one of the most talked-about true crime tours in the world. The Cream City Cannibal Tour explores one of Milwaukee’s most infamous criminal cases—walking through the exact neighborhood where multiple events connected to a notorious serial killer took place. This is not a casual history tour. Through guided storytelling, guests are led through the psychological, cultural, and real-world impact of the case, offering insight into how it unfolded and why it continues to be studied today. The tour has even been referenced in academic settings, including university psychology and criminal justice programs. Expect a deeper, more intense experience—focused on understanding, not sensationalizing. Outdoor tour. Rain or shine. Not recommended for those sensitive to true crime content.

Take a step back in time on this docent-led tour of the Hearthstone Historic House Museum in Appleton. It’s the first house in the world that was lit by a Thomas Edison central hydroelectric power station; see the original fixtures inside the house for yourself. As you tour the rooms and educational exhibits, your docent shares fascinating stories about Appleton history.

One of the most haunted bars in the nation, Shaker’s Cigar Bar—a Milwaukee institution—has a history as wild as its ghostly encounters. On this small-group tour, you’ll explore behind the scenes, hearing stories about the Capone brothers and Jeffrey Dahmer, the bar's cemetery and brothel past, and more. Bring your camera, sure, but beware of what you might catch on film.

Jutting into Lake Michigan, Door County has hundreds of miles of great views—and they’re all greatest from the water. You’ll get to sit back and enjoy them on this leisurely cruise along Sister Bay's north shore, witnessing towering bluffs, bird rookeries, tiny islands, and more. Your captain will also regale you with tales of the area’s fishing heritage and wild shipwrecks, deepening your appreciation of this gorgeous Wisconsin spot.

Travel between two lake-side terraces and enjoy some of Wisconsin's best cultural sites along the way with this self-guided and self-paced walking tour! • Visit some of Madison historically rich architectural gems such as the State Capitol, Der Rathskaller, Bascomb Hill, Memorial Union and much more • Hear from producer Frank Burge, an award-winning writer, essayist and midwestern local • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Kick off your morning with a guided e-bike tour around Milwaukee. Covering more ground in less time, you’ll ride through historic neighborhoods and scenic parks, with stops including the North Point Lighthouse and Villa Terrace Museum and Gardens. Capped at eight for a personalized experience, this tour is a fun, active way to pack in plenty of sightseeing. Hear facts and insights from your guide along the way.

If you don't see a time frame that works for you please contact me to arrange that. This workshop is addressed to adults to learn and expend their knowledge of Polish history and culture. The course is also a perfect opportunity to gain more understanding of your Polish heritage or prepare you for a visit in Poland. I will take you on a tour what my country looks like today. Starting with a short language lesson, I will then cover Polish geography, climate and interesting facts. We will spend some time talking about Polish history, World War II, Solidarity movement and changes that took place in Poland in 1989 and helped the country transition to democracy. Moving on, we will learn about Polish wedding traditions, by watching a video of my brother’s wedding. There are 16 Holidays in Poland, and I will talk about one of the favorites, the All Saints Day. At the end, we will try the famous homemade pierogi and share the recipe how to make them.

Get to know one of Milwaukee‘s most haunted neighborhoods, Westown, and discover why Marquette University is considered one of the nation‘s most haunted schools. On this self-guided walking tour, you‘ll visit eleven haunted locations and hear some of Milwaukee‘s most spook-tacular tales! Starting in front of the Milwaukee Public Museum, you‘ll stroll around Marquette Campus and along Wisconsin Ave to Straz Tower, where our tour ends. Along the way, you‘ll meet some of Milwaukee‘s most famous ghosts, including a professor who continues to report to work, and a home-proud beer baron. You‘ll also see the site of one of the city‘s most notorious murders. Lace up your shoes and join me in discovering the haunted side of this historic neighborhood. This family-friendly hour-long walk does contain content that may be disturbing, including details of murders, mentions of suicide and accidental deaths. Please use caution when selecting this tour for very young or sensitive audiences.

Discover the natural and maritime heritage of southern Door County on this self-guided driving tour. Journey through Carlsville and follow the Sturgeon Bay Canal, where you'll learn how this engineering marvel reshaped the region’s shipping industry. Pass the bustling shipyards of Sturgeon Bay and spot the Coast Guard station that still protects these waters. Along the way, hear about Native American settlements, Scandinavian influences, and Door County’s cherry orchards. Take in stunning views at Whitefish Dunes, Cave Point, and historic lighthouses. There are plenty of opportunities to stop your car and explore on foot, uncovering the rich stories behind the scenic spots. By the end of this journey, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the beauty, history, and resilience of Door County. Whether you're here for a day trip or a weekend getaway, you’ll leave with a newfound understanding of this remarkable place, and with plenty of ideas for what to explore next.

Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Lake Superior North Shore road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along Highway 61, all based on your location. You'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including one of Minnesota's most photographed lighthouses, a historic mansion that's also the site of a famous murder mystery, and an iconic 932-foot-high scenic lookout over Lake Superior. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you. - Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location - Travel at your own pace - Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed - Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use - Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates - Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

This experience is for the budget friendly travelers. This bus tour has a minimum 8 guest requirement to operate. A 90-120 minute Tour Times: 10am. Embark with fellow guests on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Milwaukee, where history, culture, and vibrant energy converge to create an experience like no other. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the iconic Harley-Davidson Museum, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this dynamic city. Explore the historic Third Ward, where cobblestone streets lead to artisan boutiques and eclectic galleries. Indulge in the delights of the city's diverse neighborhoods from the viewpoint of a local, showcasing the best of local flavors. Discover the marvels of Milwaukee's skyline, including the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum with its iconic wings. Whether you're a history buff, a restaurant lover, or an art aficionado, this Milwaukee tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you longing to uncover more of its hidden treasures.

The home of American lager and once a rival to Chicago in size, Milwaukee’s history and preeminence may not be as obvious as it once was—unless you look. With this self-guided audio tour, you’ll travel down Brew City’s most opulent drag, from the Milwaukee Public Library to the Milwaukee Art Museum. Across 150 years of history and plenty of steps, you’ll get a guided-tour experience without any of the crowds.

Gift the Packer fan in your life an experience they can’t replicate—a Segway tour along the Packers Heritage Trail, through Green Bay’s historic downtown. Showcasing the wild history of this NFL team, you’ll zoom over the Ray Nitschke Bridge, wheel across City Deck, count 22 bronze Packer plaques, and learn all there is to know about Green Bay’s football history. Small-group or private, this tour brings the Packers to life.

Discover the best of Door County, Wisconsin as you embark on a day trip to the area’s top landmarks. Join a small group and spend the day exploring outdoor areas like Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park, and Ellison Bluff. Other points of interest include Sturgeon Bay, Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, Ephraim, and Baileys Harbor.

Door County’s northern peninsula is a blend of small coastal villages, quirky oddities, and natural beauty. This self-guided driving tour takes you through the county’s most scenic landscapes, from Bailey’s Harbor on Lake Michigan to Fish Creek on Green Bay, while you listen to fascinating stories along the way. The tour starts at Anclam Town Park in Bailey’s Harbor. I’ll show you the area where Door County’s settlement began, when Captain Justice Bailey sought shelter from a storm in 1848. As you drive along the peninsula, you’ll travel through historic fishing villages, and visit scenic overlooks perched high above the water. Once you’ve completed a loop of the northern thumb, including stops at Sister Bay, Ellison Bay, and Fish Creek, the tour ends at Wood Orchard Market near Egg Harbor. Along the way, you’ll discover the perfect mix of natural beauty and local culture, and hear some of the stories behind this “Cape Cod of the Midwest.“

Find out about Milwaukee’s dark history and most haunted places with this ghost-themed tour. Opting for a private tour means you’ll hear your guide clearly and can ask all the questions you want along the way. Find out about the city’s devastating fires in 1892 and the ghosts that are still believed to haunt the city. Learn about apparitions in a pub’s basement and bathroom mirrors, and visit the city’s most haunted location.

Our guided City Skyline Kayak Tours are 1.5–2 hours long and follow the Milwaukee River up towards downtown Milwaukee. We do not make any stops along the way for this tour, but we do provide details about Milwaukee's history and attractions along the river. Our knowledgeable guides will provide you with any kayaking instruction you may need and ensure you feel safe and comfortable on this beginner-level tour.

See a quieter, more natural side of Door County on a guided Segway tour focused on lighthouses, shoreline scenery, and local history. Glide along scenic sections of Ridges Road near the Ridges Sanctuary and Toft Point Nature Preserve while your guide shares stories about historic navigation lights and Door County’s fishing heritage. This tour moves at a relaxed pace, includes personal Segway training, and is well-suited for first-time riders looking for an easy, informative outdoor experience in Door County.

Washington Island, with its rich maritime history and Scandinavian heritage, is a perfect escape from the mainland bustle. On this self-guided driving tour, you’ll explore a place where shipwrecks shaped the community, and where ”island time“ means slowing down to appreciate Washington’s natural beauty, historical sites, and its unique character. The tour starts at the Washington Island Welcome Coffee Pot. You’ll wind through rustic roads, past historic buildings, pristine beaches, and peaceful nature preserves. The route includes stops at quaint village shops, Jackson Harbor, and secluded spots like Little Lake with its hand-built museum. You’ll learn about the Danish, Norwegian, and Icelandic immigrants who shaped the island’s culture, and hear fascinating stories about the ferries that have connected this remote community to the mainland for generations. You’ll also hear about the surprising connection between West Harbor and the Underground Railroad.