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.
Earth Month is the perfect time to get outside, support local, and reconnect with the natural beauty that makes Wisconsin so special. From scenic state parks to sustainable businesses and local dining, there are countless ways to explore the state while treading a little lighter on it.
Get Outside
Wisconsin’s natural beauty shines through during all seasons, but spring sunshine makes it an especially great time to get outside. The state’s many parks offer a large range of landscapes from rugged bluffs and shoreline views to waterfalls and towering forests. Arguably the most iconic, Devil’s Lake State Park near Baraboo features scenic hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and a refreshing lake below.
For those looking to experience Wisconsin on a larger scale, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a must. Spanning more than 1,000 miles across the state, this trail traces the edge of the last glacier that shaped Wisconsin’s landscape. Easily accessible from communities like Cross Plains, Portage, Rib Lake, and Algoma, it offers countless ways to explore at your own pace. Learn more about them here. It is a simple reminder that some of the best Earth Month experiences are just a short drive away.
Support Sustainable Wisconsin Businesses
Up north on Washington Island, Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm blends beauty with sustainability through thoughtfully grown products and eco-conscious practices. In the summer, visitors can wander rows of blooming lavender, while the farm’s handmade products are available year-round.
Looking for a caffeine pick-me-up? Stop by Alice Good in Verona, an environmentally intentional cafe where everything from the beans to the glassware is carefully chosen with sustainability in mind. For something truly unique, Wooly Green Grazers partners with The Givens Farm to support regenerative agriculture, using grazing practices that help restore and enrich Wisconsin soil. Together, these businesses offer more than just great food and products. They tell the story of Wisconsin’s deep connection to the land.
Eat Local
One of the easiest ways to celebrate Earth Month is through your plate. The Oak Creek Farmers Market is a great place to start, bringing together local farmers, makers, and food vendors in one vibrant community space. Strolling the market, you can shop seasonal produce, homemade goods, and fresh-baked treats while directly supporting Wisconsin growers and small businesses.
For a more classic dining experience, The Del-Bar offers a timeless supper club atmosphere with a focus on quality ingredients and elevated dishes. Known as one of Wisconsin’s most iconic dining destinations, it is a perfect stop to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal that highlights the flavors of the region.
Choosing local, whether at a farmers market or a beloved restaurant, not only supports Wisconsin communities but also connects you more closely to the land and the people who cultivate it.
Earth Month in Wisconsin is about appreciating what is already here, from protected natural spaces to passionate local makers and growers. Whether you are hiking a bluff, enjoying a locally sourced meal, or discovering a sustainable small business, every choice is a chance to celebrate and care for the place we call home.
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).
