New Glarus

New Glarus was founded in the 1840s by a group of 100 or so intrepid immigrants who came from the canton of Glarus in eastern Switzerland. They founded the town of New Glarus, sent more friends and family back to Switzerland, and the rest is history. While there are no real mountains in Wisconsin, it’s said that the original settlers chose the spot for New Glarus because its hills reminded them of home. Today those Swiss roots are still a very important part of the town. As you arrive in New Glarus, turning onto Main Street you’ll be greeted by a large, wooden building with Swiss flags that makes it look just like you’re in Switzerland! It’s the New Glarus Hotel Restaurant, an icon of the town for many years. While you can’t actually stay at this “hotel” anymore, this is the place you’ll want to go for some good fondue, dancing and live music.

An irresistibly cute First Street lined with chalet-style shops, bakeries and restaurants makes this small-town feel like a world away—but it's less than 40 minutes from Madison. America's Little Switzerland beckons with European eats and coveted brews you can only find in Wisconsin. Take a self-guided tour of New Glarus Brewing that wraps with a flagship pint in its beer garden (Spotted Cow and Moon Man are favorites). Travel back in time at Swiss Historical Village & Museum, sample mouthwatering fudge at Maple Leaf Cheese & Chocolate Haus or practice your swing at Swissland Miniature Golf, open from late May through early October. Keep an eye out for its resident goats.

Location: Green County, Wisconsin, United States

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