A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
When the weather turns crisp and kickoff returns, so does one of Wisconsin’s most cherished traditions: the tailgate. For Wisconsinites, the real magic happens hours before the football game even starts. More than a pregame ritual, tailgating here is an experience for locals and visitors to explore local foods, discover community, and participate in the camaraderie that defines game day in the Badger State.
Lambeau Field, Green Bay
Green Bay is arguably the epicenter of tailgating. On game day, the streets surrounding Lambeau Field transform into a celebration of Wisconsin tradition. Side streets become parking lots, parking lots become block parties, and fans from near and far come together to experience unmatched hospitality. It’s the perfect blend of team pride and Wisconsin welcome.
Around here, it’s more than folding chairs and coolers – Wisconsinites have tailgating perfected. We’re talking sizzling bratwursts, fresh cheese curds, crockpots of beer cheese dip, and maybe a brandy Old Fashioned for good measure. Of course, no true Packers fan forgets their most important accessory, the iconic foam cheesehead, a symbol of team pride recognized around the world.
Beyond the stadium, Green Bay and surrounding cities offer plenty for visitors to explore. Stop in at local breweries, restaurants, and shops to experience the flavors and hospitality that make Wisconsin game days unforgettable.
If you’re ever lucky enough to attend a Packer’s Game, make time to “crack a cold one,” put on a cheesehead, and soak up the legendary Lambeau tailgating scene – it’s as iconic as the game itself.
Camp Randall, Madison
In Madison, football Saturdays mean one thing: Camp Randall comes alive. The streets surrounding the University of Wisconsin’s historic stadium are flooded with a sea of red and white as fans, students, and alumni gather for one of the most spirited game-day atmospheres in the country.
As you make your way through the campus neighborhood, the energy builds with every block. Student houses turn their lawns into parties, alumni reunite over food and drinks, and the sound of “On, Wisconsin!” echoes through the crowd. By the time you step inside Camp Randall, the anticipation peaks, especially when it’s time for the fourth-quarter tradition of “Jump Around.”
Pair your game-day experience with a stroll down State Street, a stop at a local brewery, or a sunset on the Memorial Union Terrace – and you’ll see why Madison game days are as much about the city as they are about football.
American Family Insurance Field, Milwaukee
In Milwaukee, baseball and tailgating go hand in hand. Long before the first pitch, the parking lots outside American Family Field come alive.
Unlike most ballparks across the country, tailgating here isn’t just allowed – it’s a cherished tradition. Families, friends, and fans set up lawn chairs and folding tables, fire up grills, and share everything from classic brats and burgers to elaborate spreads of cheese, dips, and desserts. Coolers brim with Wisconsin craft brews, and the atmosphere feels more like a neighborhood cookout than a pre-game warmup.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Brewers tailgate without the sounds of laughter and a round of bags before heading inside. Once the game begins, the energy carries into the stadium, where fans cheer for the famous racing sausages and belt out “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” with true Wisconsin pride.
While you’re in Milwaukee, make time to explore beyond the ballpark. From the city’s vibrant brewery scene to the scenic Milwaukee RiverWalk and Lake Michigan shoreline, there’s plenty to pair with your Brewers weekend.
If you want a taste of Wisconsin’s summer spirit, grab your glove, pack up the cooler, and join the tradition.
Your Wisconsin Tailgate Tour Awaits
From the crisp fall air in Green Bay to the campus buzz of Madison to the summer sunshine in Milwaukee, there’s a unique camaraderie that defines our game-day culture. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s filled with Wisconsin spirit.
Grab your cheesehead, wear your red and white, fire up the grill, and discover why Wisconsin is home to the greatest tailgates in the nation.
Josie Bartol is a Marketing Specialist and Project Manager at Discover Mediaworks. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
