Monroe Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Monroe, located in the beautiful region of Wisconsin in the United States, is a charming destination that offers a blend of history, nature, and a vibrant community. Known as the "Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA," Monroe is the perfect place for cheese enthusiasts to explore and indulge in the flavors of the region.

One of the must-visit attractions in Monroe is the National Historic Cheesemaking Center. This center takes visitors on a journey through the rich history of cheesemaking in the region. Explore the interactive exhibits, watch skilled artisans crafting cheese, and even try your hand at making your own. It's an educational and delicious experience for all ages.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Monroe is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Head to the nearby Yellowstone Lake State Park, where you can hike through scenic trails, enjoy a picnic by the lake, or go boating on its tranquil waters. The park also offers camping facilities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

In the heart of Monroe, you'll find the vibrant downtown area, filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and delicious restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets, browse local boutiques for handmade crafts, and be sure to sample some of the renowned Swiss cheese and other culinary delights that Monroe is famous for.

History buffs will be delighted by the Historic downtown square, which showcases architectural gems from the past. Admire the beautifully preserved buildings, including the Green County Courthouse and the Monroe Arts Center, which hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.

No visit to Monroe would be complete without a visit to the Minhas Craft Brewery. This family-owned brewery has a rich brewing tradition dating back to 1845 and offers guided tours that take you through the beer-making process. After the tour, relax in the taproom and sample a variety of handcrafted beers, including their famous Swiss-style lagers.

Alternative names: Population: 10.8 thous. (2019)Area: 33 mi²Elevation: 1063 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°36'6"N, 89°38'27"W

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WisconsinUnited States

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Monroe Top Attractions

Monroe Attractions - What to See and Explore

Monroe offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: First Methodist Church, Green County Courthouse, Monroe Water Tower, Jacob Regez Sr. House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church • Gothic Revival architecture
First Methodist Church
The First Methodist Church in Monroe, Green County, Wisconsin, now the Monroe Arts Center, is a Gothic Revival edifice designed by the former Wisconsin State Architect E. Townsend Mix of Milwaukee and constructed of Cream City brick.
Historical place • Architecture • Romanesque revival architecture
Green County Courthouse
The Green County Courthouse, located on Courthouse Square in Monroe, is the county courthouse serving Green County, Wisconsin. Built in 1891, it is the county's second permanent courthouse. Architect G. Stanley Mansfield designed the Richardsonian Romanesque building.
Tower
Monroe Water Tower
The Monroe Water Tower is a historic water tower built in 1889 in Monroe, Wisconsin. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. The first settlers came to Monroe in the 1830s. The community grew, adding a sawmill and other small industries.

42°36'19"N • 89°37'58"W
Jacob Regez Sr. House
The Jacob Regez Sr. House is a historic house built in 1901 by an important local cheesemaker in Monroe, Wisconsin, United States. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 17, 1980.
42°35'53"N • 89°38'15"W
General Francis H. West House
The General Francis H. West House is an octagon house built in 1860 in Monroe, Wisconsin. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 for its association with the historically significant West, and for its unusual combination of multiple polygons.
Gothic Revival architecture
Gen. James Bintliff House
The Gen. James Bintliff House was built in 1858 in Monroe, Wisconsin, United States. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
42°36'11"N • 89°38'28"W
Freitag's Pure Oil Service Station
Freitag's Pure Oil Service Station is an automobile service station styled like an English cottage and built in Monroe, Wisconsin in 1935 by the Pure Oil Company. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Day trips

Monroe – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Monroe, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Wisconsin State Capitol (Madison), Memorial Union Terrace (Madison), Chestnut Mountain Resort (Galena).

35 milesN
Palladian architecture, Museum, History museum
Wisconsin State Capitol, Madison
The Wisconsin State Capitol, a majestic building in Madison, Wisconsin, stands as a beacon of democracy and history. Erected on an isthmus between Lake Monona and Lake Mendota, this grand structure serves as both a working government facility and a cultural monument.
35 milesN
Palladian architecture, Nightlife, Bars and clubs
Memorial Union Terrace, Madison
The Memorial Union Terrace, nestled on the shores of Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin, is an iconic gathering spot renowned for its scenic views, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history. This lakeside terrace is part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Memorial...
43 milesSW
Winter sport, Outdoor activities, Ski area
Chestnut Mountain Resort, Galena
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Jo Daviess County, Illinois, Chestnut Mountain Resort stands as a beacon for winter sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. This charming ski resort, located near the historic town of Galena, offers an array of snowy slopes...
30 milesN
Natural attraction, Geologic formation, Cave
Cave of the Mounds, Blue Mounds
Nestled in the rolling hills of Dane County, Wisconsin, the Cave of the Mounds stands as a premier natural attraction, inviting tourists to explore the underground wonders of this geological gem. Discovered accidentally in 1939 during a routine limestone quarry blast...
43 milesNW
Museum, History museum
House on the Rock, Spring Green
The House on the Rock is a tourist attraction located between the cities of Dodgeville and Spring Green, Wisconsin. Opened in 1959, it is a complex of architecturally distinct rooms, streets, gardens, and shops designed by Alex Jordan Jr.