Wisconsin - The Badger State

Wisconsin

Wisconsin

Known as “America’s Dairyland,” Wisconsin is famous for its rolling farmlands, picturesque lakes, and, of course, cheese. Located in the upper Midwest, it shares borders with Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and two Great Lakes—Superior and Michigan—making it a state rich in natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Wisconsin became the 30th state in 1848 and has a proud history rooted in agriculture, manufacturing, and progressive political movements.

The state’s largest city, Milwaukee, sits on the western shore of Lake Michigan and is known for its brewing heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Madison, the capital, is home to the University of Wisconsin and a strong tradition of civic engagement. Wisconsin’s landscape includes over 15,000 lakes, dense forests in the north, and fertile plains in the south, supporting a wide range of wildlife and recreational activities like fishing, boating, and snowmobiling.

Wisconsin’s cultural heritage reflects its Native American roots and waves of immigrants, especially from Germany and Scandinavia. Its festivals, food, and traditions celebrate this diversity year-round.

Illinois Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Region Midwest
  1. Wisconsin is the nation's leading producer of cheese, earning it the nickname "America’s Dairyland."
  2. The state has over 15,000 lakes, making water recreation a major part of Wisconsin life.
  3. Milwaukee is famous for its brewing tradition and historic beer industry.
  4. Harley-Davidson motorcycles were founded in Milwaukee in 1903.
  5. Madison, the state capital, is uniquely located on an isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona.
  6. Wisconsin's Door County is a popular vacation spot with cherry orchards and scenic lake views.
  7. The Green Bay Packers are the only NFL team owned by fans through public shares.
  8. Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous architect, was born in Richland Center, Wisconsin.
  9. Wisconsin’s name is derived from a Native American word that likely means "gathering of the waters."
  10. The state insect is the honeybee, reflecting Wisconsin’s important role in agriculture and pollination.
Population 5.9 million (approx.)
Area 65,498 sq mi
Statehood Date May 29, 1848 (30th state)
Capital City Madison
Largest City Milwaukee
Abbreviation WI
Nickname Badger State
Geography Forests, lakes, rivers, rolling hills, and part of the Great Lakes shoreline
Bordering States Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan
Economy Dairy farming, cheese production, manufacturing, tourism, paper products
State Tree Sugar Maple
State Bird American Robin

Our Content
Wisconsin Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Wisconsin Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Wisconsin maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Wisconsin map.

Illinois History

History of Wisconsin

Wisconsin's history began with Native American nations like the Menominee, Ho-Chunk, and Ojibwe, followed by French explorers and fur traders in the 1600s. It became a U.S. state in 1848, growing rapidly through logging, farming, and immigration, especially from Germany and Scandinavia.
Abraham Lincoln

Famous People from Wisconsin

Wisconsin is the birthplace of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, known for his innovative designs like Fallingwater and the concept of organic architecture. Another famous Wisconsin native is Harry Houdini, the legendary escape artist and magician who captivated audiences around the world.

 
Comprehension

Wisconsin Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Wisconsin Symbols

Fun Wisconsin Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Wisconsin-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Wisconsin' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Wisconsin and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Wisconsin or Not Wisconsin, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.