Does the mere mention of cheddar, gouda, or Swiss set your taste buds a-tingling? Yes? Well, it’s time for a trip to Wisconsin in the heart of America’s Dairyland. Home to 126 cheese factories and farms, over 350 types of cheese are made here – that’s more than anywhere else in the world. There’s a reason why folks here are nicknamed “cheeseheads!”
If you’re ready to start sampling across the state, check out these top spots that will have you screaming, “Extra cheese, please!”
LaClare Creamery Cheese Shop, Cafe & Goat Farm
Known for all things goat cheese, LaClare Creamery Cheese Shop, Cafe & Goat Farm in Malone does things differently. In addition to their goats, they only source milk from dairies within 15 miles of the creamery, making them one of very few purely domestic goat cheese brands in the US. Take a tour of the farm, explore the Visitor’s Center, learn about the history of the creamery and enjoy a behind-the-scenes peak of cheesemaking from the viewing windows. Sample dozens of flavors of sweet and savory goat cheeses like truffle chèvre, maple bourbon and blueberry vanilla.
Fun Fact: If you visit in the spring or summer, you’ll get to play with the goat babies!
Clock Shadow Creamery
Clock Shadow Creamery in Milwaukee takes things a little South of the border with their specialty Mexican-style cheeses like the rich, melty Queso Menonita but keeps things inclusive with tried-and-true crowd favorites like their famous cheddar cheese curds. Made fresh each morning for local restaurants and markets, the cheese is also available in the factory store for samples and purchases. While tours are no longer available, you can still learn about the cheesemaking process from the staff. Why do the cheese curds squeak? You’ll have to visit to find out!
Marieke Gouda
Though this female-owned farm in Thorp is on the smaller side, it packs quite a flavorful punch, serving up authentic, award-winning raw milk Dutch gouda. Guided tours are available from June through August, where you’ll visit the Milking Parlor and spend time in the Cow Spa for cow and calf cuddling! Of course, you’ll also enjoy numerous samples of their delicious cheeses, from the Hatch Pepper with hints of chili and cumin to the sweet and creamy Honey Clover. If you’re still hungry, stop by Café Dutchess for a grilled gouda sandwich or homemade gouda queso.
Union Star Cheese Factory
For the cheese lover who likes to try a bit of everything, Union Star Cheese Factory will treat you right. This artisan cheese factory in Fremont makes more than 40 varieties of cheese, from familiar varieties like cheddar, Colby, and muenster to less well-known fromage like Dry Jack, Red Willow, and St. Jeanne. Free factory tours start promptly at 8 A.M. on Mondays and continue from Thursday through Saturday, and the fresh cheese curd samples at the end are well worth the early start time.
Old Country Cheese
Old Country Cheese in Cashton stays true to its name with an old-school approach to cheese. Each day, the factory takes in more than 125,000 gallons of milk from local Amish dairy farms and transforms it into more than 20 varieties of cheese. It’s also one of the only places outside Finland or Sweden that makes Juusto, a rare baked cheese. Of course, cheese curds are this factory’s claim to fame (this is Wisconsin), though these aren’t your typical cheddar. Nope, these are Muenster cheese curds. Stop by the store for cheese, jams and Amish candy, like white chocolate clusters.
Bass Lake Cheese Factory
Family owned and operated for more than 100 years, Bass Lake Cheesecake Factory is all about the cheddar, from aged to spiced. Located in Somerset, stop by the store and indulge in the flavor-blasted cheese curds, such as ranch, sriracha and hot pepper. And don’t skip the chocolate cheese fudge – it’s creamy and sweet, and you won’t taste the cheese (promise)! The store also boasts a full menu of soups, sandwiches and burgers. Try the Sweet Popper, a juicy burger smothered in raspberry jalapeno cream cheese.
Mars Cheese Castle
Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha is all you’d expect and more. One of the most recognizable cheese factories in the state (and, one might argue, in the nation), this castle-shaped cheese factory carries staples in any cheese fanatic’s diet: aged sharp cheddars, natural artisan cheeses, genuine hoop cheese, and the richest of them all, the famous chocolate cheese fudge. Yes, we said it. Cheese + fudge = delicious. In addition to unique and traditional cheeses, you can also find a hearty variety of fresh breads, meats and popcorn.
Arena Cheese, Inc.
Nestled in the lush hills of the Wisconsin River Valley, Arena Cheese, Inc. is one of the oldest cheese plants in the state and the inventory of the delicious buttery Colby Jack. Easily identified by the giant mouse statue holding a piece of cheese, you’ll find various cheeses to sample and purchase in the gift shop. Try the brick cheese with its sweet and mild flavor. Indulge in creamy Havarti, or try a bag of classic cheese curds. Call ahead if you’re interested in touring the facility and getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the action.
Cheese Curd Festival
For the most hardcore cheese lovers, the Cheese Curd Festival in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, is the ultimate event. Every June, the festival celebrates the town’s designation as the Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin. Experience a guided cheese tasting. Sample the fresh, hand-battered curds and enjoy live music, barbecue, craft beer and cocktails. Need something sweet? Grab a scoop of the artisan ice cream. And if you’re up for a challenge, enter the Cheese Curd Eating Contest to become the ultimate cheese champion!
