State Trunk Tour

63 | Heading into February events including Kenosha 2026 Restaurant Week!

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 03:39:59 +0000

In this State Trunk Tour episode, we cover the latest on the Ice Caves on Lake Superior and go over a few of the events this weekend before taking a deeper dive into Kenosha Restaurant Week, which kicks off Saturday, February 21st and runs through March 1st this year. Joining us will be Meridith Jumisko from Visit Kenosha to discuss the 80+ restaurants, bars, diners, drive-ins, and more across Kenosha County that will have special deals, meals, and more. This is a great opportunity to hit the SE corner of Wisconsin and deliciously explore Kenosha County! Listen in for more...

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60 | Visit Kenosha for amazing holiday markets, real reindeer, museum events and more in December

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:32:05 +0000

It’s December, and you probably have holiday shopping on your mind. Kenosha is a great place to road trip to for their downtown holiday markets right now! They also have some great events at their major museums downtown Saturday, December 6th and at other points during the holiday season, PLUS you can interact with REAL reindeer at Paris Deer Park in Kenosha County near Union Grove! Throughout the holiday season and beyond, both the city of Kenosha and Kenosha County offer plenty of fun and interesting places to exlore. We talk with Meridith Jumisko of Visit Kenosha to get details in this tidy 10-minute episode.

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59 | UPDATE: Fun, Art, & Science with the World’s Tallest Glass Tree at Yerkes in Williams Bay

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:14:52 +0000

The World’s Tallest Glass Tree is once again going up at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. It’s the centerpiece of science, art, and holiday fun that can be had the weekends of December 5-7 and 12-14, 2025. Rob Elliott and Jason Mack join host Eric Paulsen for a quick, fun, informative conversation on how they seek to break the world record yet again building this glass tree with the active help of visitors, how you can learn about the infinite possibilities of glass, and it’s all part of an artisan market with crafts, food, and fun activities both weekends. It takes place at Yerkes Observatory along Highway 67 in Williams Bay just off Geneva Lake with a free shuttle from the nearby high school. In less than 10 minutes, find out all about it right here!

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58 | Lights, stars, and shows: Dr. Teri Gee from the Barlow Planetarium

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:44:40 +0000

Holiday Lights are getting full swing across Wisconsin for the season, and it’s also a great time to see the stars - the real ones in the sky - and take in some amazing shows at Wisconsin’s planetariums! In this episode, we talk with Dr. Teri Gee from the Barlow Planetarium in Menasha about their Holiday shows, including Family Astronomy Night on Friday, November 28th with NorthEast Wisconsin Stargazers (NEWSTAR) and how you can enjoy the shows and science Barlow has to offer throughout the season and all year.
Barlow Planetarium is owned by Winnebago County and you can find them on Midway Road just off the U.S. 10/Highway 441 freeway as well as Highways 47 and 114, minutes off I-41 or from downtowns Appleton or Oshkosh.
Wisconsin has quite a few planetariums, including the legendary Yerkes Observatory (much more on that in the next episode!) and we have a guide for you on them on StateTrunkTour.com for your road trip pkanning and pleasure. A lot of handy info in under 15 minutes!

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56 | Marshfield Maple Fall Fest and fun into the holidays, plus US 10 from Highground to Grottos

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:09:44 +0000

In this episode, we preview Marshfield's Maple Fall Fest, which promises tons of tasty fun this weekend, with Visit Marshfield's Matt McLean. Looking ahead, we check out Seehafer Acres for fall fun in the area, the Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland holiday lights show with up to 2 million lights and a dazzling array of light, light shows, and a ton of festive activities, running just after Thanksgiving into New Year's. We also cover the remarkable Wildwood Park and Zoo, including the two Kodiak bears that are pretty rare to find in any zoo in the U.S... and they can walk above you on a bridge! Marshfield also holds the magic of Jurustic Park, and the downtown "Jurustic Park Trail" that offers metal art throughout the multi-block walk that can combine with great shopping and dining. And, for creatives, Board + Brush lets you craft your own artistic Marshfield memory. The Upham Mansion offers history and a unique look into 19th century living... on the nicer side! We also cover the Blue Heron Brewpub, the beer selection at Hop and Grape, the unique Nutz Deep II (quite the eye-catcher on Central Avenue), along with some other shops and restaurants. Just outside Marshfield, Powers Bluff, the Mead Wildlife Area, the Wood County Parks, and the four season fun you can have within minutes of town may surprise you. We cover it all right here.
After talking with Matt, Eric takes you on a highlight tour of U.S. 10 from Neillsville past Marshfield to just before Stevens Point, which offers a number of fun stops on a roadtrip across central Wisconsin - including to Marshfield.

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55 | Books, Brats, and Boats: Busy August in Sheboygan!

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:54:36 +0000

August is a busy time in Wisconsin with State Fair and so many other fun events. Sheboygan really gets into it with events like Johnsonville Brat Days, back for Saturday, August 2nd; Bookworm Gardens Fairyfolk Festival August 5th-10th; and then the BIG Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge Friday, August 8th through Sunday the 10th. We get together with Shelly Harms of Visit Sheboygan to discuss these plus the expansion of Food Truck Mondays in town and all the new developments and Instagramable sights along the lakefront and around the city. VisitSheboygan.com has more details on all the events, as does StateTrunkTour.com.
Plus, we tip you off to more fun events around the state as August begins and you prepare for fun road trips across Wisconsin!

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54 | AMC History: Kenosha's Homecoming Weekend Car Show & Taste of Wisconsin, plus a ride on Highway 21

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 22:17:24 +0000

Meredith Jumisko from Visit Kenosha joins host Eric Paulsen for a look at Kenosha's Homecoming Car Show, hosting classic cars and showcasing the city's amazing history of automobile manufacturing. AMC - American Motors - cars take center stage but many other classics will be on display. It's part of the larger event that also includes a cruise-in, a parade, a Gremlin event, a Block Party. Swap Meet, and even Sunday's racing over at Great Lakes Dragaway (and yes, Eric mimics the classic commercials they used to run.)
On top of that, the annual Taste of Wisconsin runs Friday, July 27th through Sunday the 29th at HarborPark, so it's an amazing two-fer when you Visit Kenosha!

After, we highlight a few other events in Kenosha and coming up around the state, plus a quick look at Highway 21 from Oshkosh over to Coloma, as an example of the magic you'll find along different highways across the Wisconsin.

More on the Homecoming Car Show: https://statetrunktour.com/event/kenosha-homecoming-car-show/

More on Taste of Wisconsin: https://www.visitkenosha.com/events/annual-events/taste-of-wisconsin/

Link to Visit Kenosha here: https://www.visitkenosha.com/

Link to State Trunk Tour here: https://www.statetrunktour.com/

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49 | Flag Day began in Wisconsin. Learn about the history and museum with Dave Janik

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 18:10:01 +0000

Flag Day is a national holiday, celebrating the United States flag every June 14th. But did you know it started in Wisconsin? We learn the history with Dave Janik, President of the Waubeka, Wisconsin-based National Flag Day Foundation, as well as discuss the annual celebrations in town commemorating Flag Day and discover the often under-the-radar Americanism Center Museum that you can visit in town any time of year.
Plus, a busy mid-June weekend is in store. Along with Flag Day, we have events around the state to share from Milwaukee's Lakefront Festival of the Arts to Door County's Steel Bridge Songfest. A 5-minute Weekend Preview begins this episode ahead of our conversation with Dave Janik. All in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast!

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48 | Visit Kenosha: Restaurant Week, History, Creative Fun & more with Meridith Jumisko

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 21:05:03 +0000

Kenosha is Wisconsin's 4th largest city, right in the state's SE corner smack dab between Milwaukee and Chicago. This dynamic city has flavors of both Wisconsin and Illinois, with Lake Michigan fun, a dynamic downtown, and unexpected gems to boot. Museums showcase Kenosha's history from Wooly Mammoths to dinosaurs as well as the making of cars, mattresses, underwear, tools, and more. It's still a manufacturing powerhouse and the area plays as hard as it works. It features the Nation's Oldest Velodrome - a mecca for bike racing - as well as natural wonders from Lake Michigan beaches to inland parks with prairies, springs, and forest to explore. Craft breweries, college and semi-pro sports, classic delis, food trucks and festivals around food, cars, marathons and more offer options a'plenty. A vibrant and diversifying restaurant scene means Kenosha has palate-pleasing options from across the world, whether you want a fusion of foods from distant continents or a good old fashioned amazing cheeseburger and a shake from a classic drive-in. Starting with Kenosha Restaurant Week and then getting into everything else, we talk with Meridith Jumisko from Visit Kenosha to cover it all.
VisitKenosha.com has more!

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47 | Visit Racine County west to east and get hyped with Cari Greving!

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 21:13:06 +0000

Real Racine is now Visit Racine County... but the whole county is real. Real fun with a lot of real options! In this State Trunk Tour Podcast, we cover everything Racine County with Cari Greving, Executive Director of Visit Racine County. We generally go from west to east, giving love to the small towns and their surprising array of things to see and do (much of it walkable), through the countryside with everything from wineries to barn quilts to observatories that are literally astronomical. We check out the lakefront with lighthouses, light shows for the holidays, and lit architecture both in and out of the City of Racine. Water fun on Lake Michigan or inland rivers like the Root and the Fox. New boutique hotels, restaurants, the classic Racine Zoo, and even a spot you can pick up an Indian Motorcycle and experience a road trip a whole new way. Be sure you check out Racine County's Visitors Center too, along Highway 20 just west of I-41/94. We cover it all with Cari in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast. You WILL find yourself wanting to plan a few visits, maybe around a variety of themes!

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46 | Wisconsin Dive Bars and Road Trips with Jared Schutz

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 20:34:40 +0000

Wisconsin Dive Bars can be found everywhere in the state and lately they've been getting the love nd recognition they deserve. Jared Schutz is a Wisconsin dive bar authority, having catalogued over 700 visits so far on his Wisco_Dive_Bars_ accounts on socials and his WiscoDiveBars.com website, which maps them all out. With several thousand visits to go, State Trunk Tour Host Eric Paulsen joined Jared for a candid conversation on the dive bar culture, uniqueness, and value to their local communities. We discuss how Jared got started tracking and sharing these dive bars, how Busch Lights came his rating scale, which bar caused him to give the most negative rating and why, how this endeavor has led him to multiple partnership and even his own brand of vodka, and of course we discuss some specific dive bars and the road trips that lead you there. In this episode, definitely a "part one" of multiples, we focus on dive bars in western Wisconsin. Locations from Kenosha to Superior and near Dubuque up to Door County also get shout-outs in this comprehensive study one of Wisconsin's most precious resources. Dive in and enjoy this episode with Eric and Jared and prepare to plan your road trips to explore these Wisconsin dive bars!

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45 | Central Wisconsin State Fair fun and tons of new and cool stuff in Marshfield with Matt McLean

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 22:26:36 +0000

Host Eric Paulsen is joined by Matt McLean from Visit Marshfield to preview the Central Wisconsin State Fair, which kicks off August 20th through the 25th. National artists performing live, rodeo, demolition derby and all the other fun Fair activity (including the "Kiss A Critter" contest), food, kids' events, and more. We also preview some of the great events leading into fall and winter including Maple Fall Fest and the Rotary Holiday Lights with LITERALLY MILLIONS of lights at Wildwood Park. Regardless of season, shopping in downtown Marshfield is pretty sweet, with unique boutiques, a great independent record store (with Dave's Guitars right there), plus a new candle company, ice cream shop, and more. Activities at Wenzel Family Plaza and the new Van de Hey Waters, a bevy of good restaurants, and art and history installations make for tons of fun activities in Marshfield. Outside of town, you can enjoy Jurustic Park and a variety of creameries and cheese factories, outdoor recreation at Powers Bluff and numerous state natural areas, golf, nature parks, and even one of Eric's favorite signs in the state - that tells you what the road is NOT. Also covered? Some good places to stay and of course where to catch local brews. We cover it all in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast!

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44 | Olympics: Could Milwaukee host and make the most of it? Yes, according to Jay Sorgi

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 21:44:51 +0000

With the 2024 Summer Olympic Games underway, we're here to talk about the Olympics – and Milwaukee and Wisconsin. As in, could Milwaukee host an Olympic Games? Even if it could. why? What’s in it for the city and the greater region? Answers exist in a fascinating book called Greater Than The Games, Volume 1: MKE2028, created by broadcaster Jay Sorgi. He began researching the topic out of curiosity. Unearthing more information led to the belief that Milwaukee could not only host the Olympic Games, but the additional investments to fully prepare for such an endeavor - given the right planning and execution – could drive positive, transformative change for Milwaukee and the entire region. Far-fetched, you say? It’s not. In Greater Than The Games, Volume 1: MKE2028, Jay lays out how Olympic bids work; how some cities used it to propel themselves to the next level while others were left with debt and white elephants; the remarkable wealth of venues, facilities, and resources within reasonable distance of Milwaukee already, and how additional investments for venues, housing, transportation and more can be properly repurposed after the Games to bring the city and region to the next level for the future. Listen to this conversation, read the book, and watch the Olympics; you might find inspiration not just for Milwaukee, but for yourself. You can find the book on Amazon here!

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43 | Blasts, Brats, and Boats with Visit Sheboygan's Shelly Harms

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 18:17:19 +0000

We preview the last weekend of June in this episode and then dive deeper into Sheboygan, where Eric Paulsen has a discussion about upcoming events with Shelly Harms from Visit Sheboygan. The 4th of July celebrations coming up kick off Wedmesday the 3rd with live music on City Green (part of the weekly Levitt AMP Concert Series happening all summer) and the Venetian Boat Parade, plus more events capped off with fireworks on the 4th. August kicks off with the much-heralded return of Brat Days (fitting, in the Bratwurst Capital) and the resurrected Coho Derby on Lake Michigan with celebrations along at Deland Park. The Sheboygan Midwest Challenge brings speedboats to Sheboygan the following weekend with plenty of action, plus a trolley can take you from South Pier and the Harbor District, through downtown and all the way up to Bookworm Gardens and 3 Sheeps Brewery for ease of getting around - all day long for just $1! Discover more about Sheboygan's vibrant downtown and South Pier areas, find out why the kids will also love a road trip there, find out some great places to stay, and be sure to hit Highways 23, 28, or 42 to get there. Oh, and remember: StateTrunkTour.com has not only events and fun resources, but updated listings and showtimes for drive-in movie venues across Wisconsin all season long!

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39 | The World's Tallest Glass Tree is going up right now in Williams Bay. Here's how you can check it out!

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 00:58:37 +0000

The World's Tallest Glass Tree is going up right now at Yerkes Observatory along Highway 67 in Williams Bay, Wisconsin. Under the inspirational guidance of Rob Elliott and glass maker Jason Mack, this endeavor is in its second year. They take donated glass from all over, spin it onto a pole, and create a 31-foot tree that will get topped with a huge star on December 17th in an event that you MUST see - especially if you want to see a world record happen!
In this episode, head State Trunk Tour Guide Eric Paulsen sits down in the studios of WLKG raido in Lake Geneva to discuss how this whole thing and the public events that include tree construction (which you can participate in) and a vendor market with over 20 artisans and others that can help you get your holiday shopping done while getting inspired. Learn how glass gets made, how it's recycled, and how it is spun into a 31-foot tall Christmas Tree, right there in the front yard of Yerkes Observatory!
This tree is constructed with donated glass from around the area. People are welcome to come and bring their empty glass bottles, jars, and they'll melt that glass down right on site with a portable furnace and spin it into the tree's construction. You can even help - and learn.
Tree construction is underway, and these next few Friday-Sunday weekends (December 1-3, 8-10, and 15-17, 2023) you can join in. The BIG event is the topping of the tree on Sunday, December 17th!
If you've ever wanted to learn about glass blowing, get your own custom glass-blown ornament, or contribute to a world record being set - all while checking out the beautiful Yerkes Observatory abutting Geneva Lake - THIS is the time. They'll even have a specialty beer made by nearby Deusterbeck's Brewing that specifically commemorates the tree! They're also working with Enlightened Brewing out of Milwaukee and the classic Seipp's Beer out of Chicago, which offers their beer at Black Point Estate nearby for some special releases, too. We cover all of this, plus stories and even the challenges of trying to make it a Guinness World Record. Hit Highway 67 between U.S. 14 and Highway 50 in Walworth County, you'll find Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay. The events you can attend run Dec. 1-3, 8-10, and 15-17 - and on Sunday, December 17th they have their MAIN event, when they present the finished tree and top it off with the beautiful star. Find out more on StateTrunkTour.com and directly at WorldsTallestGlassTree.com!

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38 | Marshfield, Maple Fall Fest, Meat Sticks, more updates on this growing city

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 17:32:14 +0000

Marshfield, Wisconsin's "Hub City," continues to grow and offer more for visitors to experience. It starts with Central Avenue, the main artery offering some fantastic shopping, great restaurants and more to explore along with the Jurustic Park Downtown Walk. Within blocks, a wide variety of other attractions abound year 'round. This city of 20,000 is anchored by Marshfield Clinic, a world class medical center that has attracted a diverse population and gives the town bigger city vibes.
In this episode, Eric Paulsen talks with Matt McLean from VISIT Marshfield about all of this, plus the upcoming Maple Fall Fest that, coupled with Blue Heron Brewpub's Oktoberfest, will prove to be a great place to visit the weekend of September 16 & 17, 2023.
Maple Fall Fest will feature amazing food, drinks, kids activities, games, baby goats to pet, even pumpkin bowling and Nerf-style ax throwing. There will be performances from the Main Street Conservatory of Dance, grilling fun with Mad Dog & Merrill, even Wildwood Zoo Tours. And yes, lots of maple.
The Zoo is a major feature of Wildwood Park, puncuated by two Kodiak bears in a large, 40,000 square foot natural area complete with a pond and an overhead bridge. A variety of other animals can be viewed and learned about at this free zoo, too.
We also discuss the Chustnut Center for the arts, the Heritage Museum, Wenzel Family Plaza, Visual Arts Gallery, Upham Mansion, and nearby attractions including Powers Bluff, the Nasonville Dairy, and upcoming events like Marshfield's Winter Rotary Holiday Lights. Wenzel Family Plaza hosts an ice skating rinks in the winter months, too!
It came up in conversation that Marshfield recently hosted the World's Longest Meat SnackStick, a creation of nearby Wenzel Farms. This, coupled with the fact that the city has the World's Largest Round Barn, led to some spontaneous ideas. We discuss it all in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast. Find out more on StateTrunkTour.com and VisitMarshfield.com!

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36 | Oconto County: Road Tripping to Trails, Tracks, Copper, and the Coast

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 20:37:20 +0000

Oconto County, tucked into northeastern Wisconsin, offers a lot on your road trip. In the episode, host Eric Paulsen talks with Oconto County Tourism Director Sammy Boucher to discuss it all. We begin with the county's extensive trails for motorized recreaton, especially with Gillett laying claim to the "ATV Capital of the World" (with a stop there at OJ's for pie being a must!) Amidst the beauty of the Nicolet National Forest, you can enjoy Mountain, Lakewood, and Townsend along Highway 32 - including two wineries: the Woodland Trails & Winery in Lakewood and the new Lakehouse Winery in Townsend, where they make Wine Bloody Marys. Closer to Oconto itself, Copper Culture State Park offers plenty to see and new trail connections to the rest of the system. In Oconto itself, Sammy talks about the new and emerging shops in downtown, touring the first Christian Science Church in the world, and checking out the historic Beyer House & Carriage Museum which includes electric vehicles - from over 110 years ago!
Oconto is growing, too. With companies like Cruisers Yachts and various other industries across Oconto County, some good and new employment opportunities exist!
Speaking of new things across Oconto County, Lena now features the Dirt City Motorplex, a very cool dirt track with modern facilities located right off U.S. 141 - with a major event coming up at the end of July. Back to the waters of Lake Michigan, Oconto's Breakwater Park & Harbor is home to some major fishing tournaments. The Marina is a great place to launch, or pull in for a visit. Shout out to The Dockside for a meal when you visit! Another must-stop is where U.S. 41 & 141 split (or merge, depending on your direction) in Abrams: enjoy a treat at the Timberlea Drive-In, one of Sam's favorites! We cap off our conversation with major events coming up, including races at Dirt City Motorplex, the massive Art Fair in Lakewood & Townsend in mid-August, and more. Hit U.S. 41, U.S. 141, Highways 22, 32, or 64, and extensive county and forest roads for a great road trip and fun experiences in Oconto County. You can find out more at OcontoCounty.org, too!

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35 | All about Summerfest 2023 with Summerfest President Sarah Pancheri

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 20:06:47 +0000

Milwaukee's legendary Summerfest turns 55 this year, and 2023 brings new experiences, changes and upgrades, and another amazing lineup of artists across multiple genres - over 600 performances to choose from. Running June 22-24, June 29-July 1, and July 6-8, 2023, Eric Paulsen and Sarah Pancheri cover all aspects of the festival, including select performances, the return of the "hole in one" golf challange over the water and Freeway Flyers to easily arrive to depart from the grounds, the Summerfest app, and ways you can get in at discounted rates or even free. We have more on StateTrunkTour.com; meanwhile, enjoy our conversation with Sarah about Summerfest - right under I-794, and US 18 and Highway 32 both bring you within sight of the festival! Perfect for a music- and fun-oriented road trip in Wisconsin.

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34 | Pull into Port Washington for 2023's New Murals, Expansions, the Return of Fish Days and much more

Sun, 28 May 2023 00:37:09 +0000

Port Washington is awash in history and both natural and architectural beauty. But the variety of things to do and see - and the events you can experience - are growing rapidly. Eric sits down with Wayne Chrusciel, Executive Director of Port Washington Tourism, for an update on what's happening in this charming, often serene but increasingly busting little city with the big harbor on Lake Michigan. The 1860 Lighthouse & Museum with St. Mary's Church are part of the reason downtown Port Washington has the largest collection of pre-Civil War buildings in Wisconsin. Art is growing in Port Washington, which beat out locations across 11 states to become the Midwest representative for the Mosaic Murals, kicking off some mural momentum in town. Lake Michigan's opportunity to enjoy swimming, boating, surfing, and beaches is unsurpassed anywhere in the state, and the city is flanked by spectacular parks, including Harrington Beach State Park to the north and Lions Den Gorge County Park to the south. Kids can enjoy all of these amenities as well as places like the Possibility Playground, which is accessible to everyone while offering beautiful views from the bluff. Inventors Brewpub offers terrific craft beer and is in the process of expanding to a new downtown venue. Vines to Cellar Winery not only makes and offers great wines, but also gives you extra opportunities to learn about wine and even make your own. Coal Dock Park is starting to blossom as a place to walk, enjoy the views, and some emerging events. Events in Port Washington include the Port Festival of the Arts, Fall Fest, Christmas on the Corner, and the legendary Fish Days are BACK in mid-July - and running multiple days again! Meanwhile this summer, every Saturday from June through October Port Washington offers their comprehensive farmers market in the morning hours downtown and a beer garden in the afternoon in Upper Lake Park, right across from Possibility Playground. And their downtown hotel just got a major update and reopened, so you have a walkable lodging option. Check out more on StateTrunkTour.com and VisitPortWashington.com!

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30 | Lake Geneva this Winter: a new "World's Tallest" and a plethora of fun activities all season

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 20:28:40 +0000

Lake Geneva has always offered a dizzying array of great options for winter fun, and this year they up the ante with the World's Tallest Glass Tree at the newly-reopened Yerkes Observatory. Eric joins VISIT Lake Geneva CEO Stephanie Klett to cover a lot of ground for all the activities you can experience and enjoy from world-class attractions, arts, events, and shows to boutique shopping and food and beverage experiences in this whirlwind episode. Remember, U.S. 12 and Highways 50, 67 and 120 bring you to the area!

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29 | Canadian Pacific Holiday Train's stops across Wisconsin Dec 8-10

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 22:48:04 +0000

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is BACK this year! It runs across Wisconsin on the CP tracks, stopping in 13 places from Sturtevant to La Crosse December 8-10 in 2022. Here's where and when you can see the train, enjoy the beauty and entertainment, and help local community food banks - perhaps on a fun holiday road trip!

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28 | Sheboygan: Surfing, Eating, and Exploring What's New (which is plenty!) into Fall & Winter

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 23:39:11 +0000

Sheboygan offers plenty of great options - including surfing, of course - as we head into fall and winter. The increasingly vibrant and diverse restaurant (and food truck) scene is complemented with new museums, parks, and plenty to explore. We check in with Shelly Harms from Visit Sheboygan to discuss all of this, plus updates on 3 Sheeps Brewing and events from folk music this weekend (9/10/22) up to Jingle & Mingle for the holiday season. Highways 23, 28, and 42 all bring you there on a road trip. Listen and find out more on StateTrunkTour.com and VisitSheboygan.com!

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27 | Marshfield expands with new sites, shops, events, and more

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 04:08:46 +0000

Marshfield - Wisconsin's "Hub City" known for medical care and advancements, also has a vibrant downtown with unique shops, a great zoo, historic sites, crazy sculptures with Jurustic Park, new activities with outdoor plazas, and a number of great events coming up. Find out all about it with host Eric Paulsen and Matt McLean from Visit Marshfield! U.S. 10 and Highways 13, 80, and 97 bring you there on a road trip.

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26 | Chippewa Falls: Road Tripping to summer fairs, events, great scenery and towns

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 21:12:56 +0000

Chippewa Falls and Chippewa County are packed with fun things to do and see as we go through summer. Events from the Northern Wisconsin State Fair and Rock Fest to Pure Water Day and Leinie's Oktoberfest, plus a ton of always-on options from breweries to bike trails all await as we discuss fun options with Tourism Director Jackie Boos for your next road trip to Chippewa County. You'll definitely want to explore via U.S. 53, Highways 27. 29, 40, 64, 124, 178, or even the historic Yellowstone Trail!

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25 | Manitowoc County: the Coolest Coast for a Reason, with Jason Ring

Mon, 09 May 2022 19:19:05 +0000

Manitowoc County features food trails, cave exploration, unique museums and maritime fun, all with cool stories behind them. Join host Eric Paulsen and guest Jason Ring to dive into Manitowoc, Two Rivers, and points throughout the county to find fun for everyone, including events that salute everything from ice cream sundaes to space.

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24 | A deep "dive" into Port Washington - maritime and more

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 21:25:11 +0000

Port Washington may be a small town, but it has big offerings. From the incredible adventures you can have on the water and its beautiful harbor to its vibrant downtown, it's a great visit for a day trip, weekend, or for their may festivals - including their first-ever Winterfest, coming up February 6th. We dive into it all!

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23 | Lake Geneva: World Class Winter Magic: Ice Castles, Snow Sculptures, Winter Sports and a lot more

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 20:49:10 +0000

Lake Geneva offers a world-class winter getaway experience, and with the coveted Ice Castles underway and their Winterfest & U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championships coming, it was the perfect time for a conversation with VISIT Lake Geneva's dynamo CEO, Stephanie Klett. We also hit up winter sports, amazing shopping, resorts, apothecaries, Dungeons & Dragons, breweries, wineries, distilleries, magic shows, and a big update on the amazing Yerkes Observatory right nearby.

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22 | Sheboygan: Mingling in the Malibu of the Midwest

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 18:33:12 +0000

Surfing in winter? Yes, they do that. Sheboygan is the Malibu of the Midwest and the Bratwurst Capital of the World. Buoyed by a diversifying food scene, a thriving arts and creative community, and a downtown people are increasingly moving to Sheboygan offers plenty of reasons to road trip. This includes upcoming holiday celebrations like the new Jingle & Mingle. Find out how to maximize your experience here. Guest: Shelly Harms with Visit Sheboygan.

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21 | Hartford: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles... plus Golf, Hot Air Balloons, and more!

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 15:41:40 +0000

Hartford offers remarkable automotive history with its museum, natural beauty all around, some classic architecture, proximity to Erin Hills, Holy Hill, and plenty to enjoy from shopping to balloon festivals and more. State Trunk Tour's Eric Paulsen talks with Doreen Buntrock about Hartford's offerings, including the upcoming Hot Air Affair Balloon Rally. A State Trunk Tour road trip on Highways 60 or 83 brings you there!

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20 | Exploring Green Bay's multitude of things to do and see when you can't go to games at Lambeau

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 05:22:14 +0000

Green Bay is famous for being "Titletown." But don't let COVID-era attendance limitations at Lambeau stop you from heading to Wisconsin's oldest (and only NFL) city and taking in the sights, museums, history, gardens, family-friendly activities, breweries, and more. Brenda Krainik from the Green Bay CVB joins Eric Paulsen for more reasons to road trip to Packerland.

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19 | Racine County Fall Farm Fun, Barn Quilts, Beer Gardens, Wine Walks, even Lakefront Yoga

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 15:50:56 +0000

It's October, and fall fun options include apple picking (and shooting them out of cannons), barn quilt views and tours, wine walks, beer gardens, corn mazes, Halloween Glow lights, even yoga with coffee along Lake Michigan. Cari Greving from Real Racine joins Eric Paulsen for a fun review of Fall Farm Fun across Racine County, east or west "of the I" on this State Trunk Tour Podcast episode.

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18 | Hygeia Spring and the Great Pipeline Battle to Chicago: Waukesha's colorful water history

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 04:15:05 +0000

In the late 19th century, Waukesha's water and Hygeia Springs had a national reputation for health, to the point where an entrepreneur tried to build a pipeline sending the water to Chicago's 1893 World Columbian Exposition. He succeeded - sort of. You can even visit this spring in Big Bend, just off Highway 164. We explore this clear-running but colorful liquid history, including the Great Pipeline Battle, in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast.

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17 | Paramount Music and the remarkable history of Blues in - Grafton and Port Washington, Wisconsin??

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 00:56:49 +0000

Show of hands - who knew there was a HUGE early movement of Blues, R&B, Country and even some Big Band music in Grafton and Port Washington, Wisconsin? There was indeed, and the story is remarkable. The Paramount Music record label was created in a chair factory along the Milwaukee River, shuttling musicians from Mississippi to Wisconsin 100 years ago to make music that laid the groundwork for what rock & roll, country, and R&B would become... in an unexpected place. We share the story and its resurrection here and look to one of the big music festivals in Port Washington celebrating this history, which is now part of the Mississippi Blues Trail. In, yes, Wisconsin.

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16 | The Milwaukee County Zoo's remarkable history, animals, attractions, and events with Jennifer Diliberti

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 05:04:05 +0000

The Milwaukee County Zoo is one of the finest and largest zoos in the nation. Amidst a 190-acre park-like setting you can ride the Safari Train, explore Adventure Africa, check out over 2,100 animals representing 350 different species, and enjoy special events. We cover all of that Jenny Diliberti from the Zoo, from its history to the need for elephant pedicures and from the new otter exhibit to Zoo A La Carte, one of their biggest events where restaurants and live music join in the fun in this latest State Trunk Tour Podcast. You'll find the Milwaukee County Zoo surrounded by I-94, I-41, U.S. 18, U.S. 45, and Highway 100!

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15 | Wisconsin State Fair 2019 Preview with Kristi Chuckel

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 04:17:31 +0000

The Wisconsin State Fair ranks among the nation's best, and the 2019 edition runs August 1-11. In this STT episode, Eric Paulsen talks with State Fair Director of Public Affairs Kristi Chuckel about everything from traditional foods (cream puffs) to new foods (like bug tacos?!?) to rides, slides, music, the history, and of course, the animals and their farmers and caretakers coming in from around the state. I-94, Highway 59, and Highway 181 in West Allis bring you right to the park! StateTrunkTour.com has more on State Fair events and other things to know.

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13 | Exploring Manitowoc's Wisconsin Coastal Food (and Beverage) Trail with Jason Ring

Fri, 31 May 2019 06:28:18 +0000

Manitowoc, Two Rivers, and the surrounding area is home to some amazing farms, bakeries, cheese factories, breweries, wineries, and even confectioneries that can tickle your taste buds. State Trunk Tour host Eric Paulsen talks with Jason Ring from the Manitowoc/Two Rivers CVB about their new Wisconsin Coastal Food Trail and its destinations. Nearly 20 locations you can connect to via car, bike, or even on foot that delight your palate, mood, mind, and soul - and it's just beginning.

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14 | Summerfest 2019: What to expect this year at the World's Largest Music Festival in Milwaukee

Tue, 14 May 2019 04:20:26 +0000

Summerfest 2019 fills Milwaukee's lakefront with music from over 700 artists across many genres June 26-30 & July 2-7, 2019. State Trunk Tour's Eric Paulsen sits down with Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. VP/Marketing Sarah Pancheri to talk new stages, artists, food, ways to get in at a reduced rate or even free, all in this episode of the State Trunk Tour Podcast.

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12 | Talking again with WI Public Radio's "Central Time" in March about the State Trunk Tour

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 18:39:45 +0000

After a well-received interview with Wisconsin Public Radio's "Central Time" show in January, we were invited back in March to talk about the State Trunk Tour, Wisconsin road trips, and hear from callers. This is our second WPR interview, as it aired live on March 27, 2019 on the state's radio network.

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11 | Talking State Trunk Tour with Wisconsin Public Radio's "Central Time"

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 05:15:54 +0000

The road tripping ideas behind StateTrunkTour.com caught the attention of "Central Time," an afternoon show on Wisconsin Public Radio. On January 16, 2019, State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen sat down with Rob Ferrett, discussed Wisconsin and the Tours, and got callers from around the state. Here's the interview as it aired on WPR's network of stations.

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10 | Winter Fest fun: Ice Carvers and Snow Sculptors in Wisconsin

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 05:41:56 +0000

Wisconsin winters mean a lot of outdoor fun involving snow and ice. But out of what we often skate, snowmobile, or slide on - or just shovel away - some artists create incredible art and sculptures. In this episode, we talk with professional ice carver and snow sculptor Jeff Shawhan - one of the talented people who can craft amazing art that wows onlookers... before it all melts.

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9 | Cherry Droppin' for New Year's: Door County's New Party Tradition

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 23:47:31 +0000

Ah, New Year's Eve! We all know about the ball drop in Times Square in NYC. But did you know about the Cherry Drop? A new way to ring in the New Year is blossoming in Sister Bay, where the Door County Cherry Drop debuted to ring in 2018. And they're ready to build on it and make it a tradition. Find out how this came about and how you can have some fun there for NYE, just take Highways 42 and 57 to get there!

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8 | Exploring Chippewa Falls top to bottom with Tourism Director Jackie Boos

Sat, 07 Jul 2018 17:53:09 +0000

Chippewa Falls is a beautiful town in Wisconsin, known for Leinenkugel's Beer, natural beauty, and plenty to see and do - especially for a city this size. We talk with Jackie Boos, Tourism Director of the Chippewa Chamber, to cover everything from their gem of a zoo and park to the Northern Wisconsin State Fair, floating the Chippewa River, historic sites, more breweries, shopping, and all there is to do and see in and around town.

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7 | Heading to the Hub: new updates on Marshfield, Wisconsin's "Hub City" with Matt McLean

Thu, 17 May 2018 00:26:00 +0000

Marshfield is internationally known for its world-class Marshfield Clinic, but this city of 20,000 goes beyond medicine to prescribe a fun visit featuring the arts, historic structures, a zoo offering Kodiak bears, roaming buffalo and interactive exhibits, the unique "Jurustic Park" where words like "converted helicopter dragon" can be heard, the World's Largest Round Barn, the Blue Heron Brewery, and plenty of great events. We get the latest on Marshfield, and a new downtown feature coming in, from Matt McLean of the Marshfield CVB. US 10 & Highways 13, 80, and 97 all bring you to "Hub City."

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6 | Sheboygan and the new City Green; a conversation with Shelly Harms

Thu, 10 May 2018 06:00:12 +0000

Sheboygan conjures up all kinds of images. This city of 50,000 on Lake Michigan is known for brats and good ol' Wisconsin traditions. But its admired harbor area, downtown development, world class golf, surfing reputation (seriously), support from companies and young professionals, Kohler-Andrae State Park, the new Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, and a new creation downtown called City Green is taking everything up a notch. We discuss with Shelly Harms from Visit Sheboygan.

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5 | Open House Racine County, a unique way to fully explore (up to) 57 places in a day

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 05:39:19 +0000

On May 5, 2018, 57 venues around Racine and Racine County will hold a unique "open house," giving visitors free and full access to what they have to offer. They include museums highlighting art, chocolate, puzzles, and more; alpaca farms; high-tech manufacturing facilities; Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings in town; the Wind Point Lighthouse; an observatory; wineries, breweries, and distilleries; even a Wine-and-Kringle pairing. We sit and talk with Paul Holley, Real Racine's Marketing Director, about the May 5th event and how you can take full advantage of sights across the county from Racine to Burlington - and enjoy them beyond this one date, too.

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4 | Touring Highway 175, "old US 41" from Miller Park to Lake Winnebago

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 05:27:42 +0000

Since the State Trunk Tour features following state highways from one end to the other, here we follow Highway 175 from Milwaukee to Fond du Lac, which uses the former US 41 route before it was rebuilt on its current alignment in the early 1950s. Where 41 used to go, 175 goes now and you can see small towns, historic crossroads, old buildings, and sights from ski hills and race tracks to cheese shops and even Miller Park. since its southern end starts there! You can follow online at http://statetrunktour.com/routes/175-2/. Let's pick this road and GO!

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3 | Racine: Sights and insights into the Belle City with Cari Greving of Real Racine

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 05:20:21 +0000

Racine, Wisconsin's 5th largest city, features everything from modern museums to classic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture; award-winning beaches, an extensive marina, and a classic lighthouse; a bevy of events and new development; plus fascinating history, from the invention of malted milk and the garbage disposal to displaying a gun used by John Dillinger in a robbery - at the police station! Racine County adds even more. We sit down with Cari Greving of Real Racine to sort it all out to you can see what might interest you there. I-41/94, US 45, and Highways 11, 20, 31, 32, 36. 38, 75, 83, and 142 all reach Racine County.

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2 | Talking "Cheeseheads: The Documentary" with producer John Mitchell

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 07:34:40 +0000

Producer John Mitchell is a Wisconsin native who left for L.A. and returned two decades later to make a documentary showcasing his home state and its special culture, history, and appeal. Called "Cheeseheads: The Documentary," this in-depth, sometimes personal, often humorous look at the state shows why the "Cheesehead" is more than just a funny foam hat. The State Trunk Tour makes a cameo, too! It's out now, and we talk with him about Wisconsin, making this documentary, and what makes this state so special.

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1 | State Trunk Tour, a brief intro

Tue, 06 Mar 2018 00:11:15 +0000

The State Trunk Tour is a website that explore Wisconsin road-by-road to offer great road trip ideas, background and history of towns, attractions, popular and out-of-the-way joints, and opportunities for fun and recreation. We give you the basics here - consider it a brief primer.

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