11 things to do in Plymouth, the Cheese Capital of the World
Plan your trip to the cheese capital of the world, which happens to be right here in Wisconsin. Here are 11 things to do in Plymouth.
The Packers, beer, and cheese are in every Wisconsinite’s blood. But did you know that Plymouth, Wisconsin, is actually the cheese capital of the world? According to the Cheese Counter, Plymouth provides about 14% of the total cheese consumed in the United States.
Even though only 9,000 people live in the tiny town of Plymouth, it is home to some big-name brands you may have undoubtedly heard of, like Sargento, Sartori, and Great Lakes Cheese. It’s also home to a New Year’s Eve cheese drop, a fantastic annual event that’s run 18 years strong so far!
A visit to this small town with a huge role in all things cheesy promises tons of interesting things to do. From tasting fabulous cheese in all ways, shapes, and forms to taking in all the gorgeous murals throughout downtown, take a look at these 11 things to do in Plymouth.
1. Get lunch at the Cheese Counter and Dairy Heritage Center
133 East Mill Street | Open Monday to Saturday (hours vary)
While there is more to Plymouth than just cheese, a stop by the Cheese Counter and Dairy Heritage Center when you’re in town should be at the top of your list! Here, you’ll be able to grab a delicious lunch, including all your cheesy favorites like grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and more. There’s also a gift shop, so you can take your favorite treats and merch to-go and enjoy at home.
2. Visit the Plymouth Cheese Capital sign
603 East Mill Street
Just in case any visitors wandering through Plymouth aren’t aware, Plymouth’s welcome sign reminds travelers that they’re about to enter the cheese capital of the world. The pillars at the base of the sign are made of Cream City brick. It’s the perfect place for a scenic shot (just keep an eye out for traffic).
3. Grab a drink at Plymouth Brewing Company
222 East Mill Street | Open Wednesday to Saturday (hours vary)
What is more Wisconsin than enjoying a good brew in the cheese capital of the world? Plymouth Brewing Company has been crafting classics since the late 1800s. Although the brewing company has had a few different homes since then, the Taproom has been welcoming patrons since 2013. The establishment is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend, but they only offer drinks, so plan to bring something to snack on while you enjoy your beer.
4. Learn something new at the Plymouth Historical Society
420 East Mill Street | Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Enjoy a blast from the past when you visit the Plymouth Historical Society. Learn all about Plymouth’s founding history and explore various exhibits, including Plank Trail Road, where visitors can take a glimpse into the past with different scenes in the windows throughout the exhibit. Before you plan your visit, check out the museum’s calendar to see what event is going on—there are a ton of different events to explore!
5. Take a self-guided walking tour of Plymouth’s many murals
Throughout downtown Plymouth
Checking out six blocks worth of original murals is definitely one of the things to do in Plymouth when you’re in town. The murals, created by the Walldogs, are an ode to Plymouth’s history. Before you visit, bookmark or print this Mural Walking Tour Map to make sure you don’t miss any of these creative and beautiful 30 paintings on your self-guided walking tour.
6. Snap a photo with Antoinette
12 South Milwaukee Street
This larger-than-life cow is a must-visit stop on visitors’ list of things to do in Plymouth. Named Antoinette in 1992, this giant statue, weighing in at about 1,000 lbs, is a Holstein cow known for their significant role in dairy production. This might seem odd anywhere else, but in the cheese capital of the world, it makes complete sense.
7. Take in the views from Parnell Observation Tower
W7876 County Road U | Open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The Parnell Observation Tower stands 60 ft tall in the Kettle Moraine State Forrest and offers incredible views, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing. You’ll come across the tower during a 3.5-mile hiking loop. A review suggests that the trail is rocky and has quite a few roots, so be sure to wear the right footwear when you go.
8. Explore Stayer Jr Park
39 Stafford Street | Open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Speaking of gorgeous outdoor experiences, if you feel like going out and about, swing by Stayer Jr Park. Nestled in downtown Plymouth, you can follow paved paths along the river for a beautiful view of a picture-perfect backdrop for a selfie. If you’re bringing the family, there is also a playground for the littles.
9. Get creative at the Plymouth Art Center
520 E Mill Street | Open Tuesday to Saturday (hours vary)
If you enjoy art and want to support this Wisconsin community, one of the things to do in Plymouth is to stop by the Plymouth Art Center. This non-profit center’s mission is to “enliven the spirit of our community and to enrich the lives of all, by providing diverse experiences in the arts!” The center also hosts events and classes occasionally.
10. Shop around downtown
Downtown Plymouth
In between checking out Plymouth’s murals and tasty local eats, be sure to visit local shops like Allechant Boutique LLC, Books and More, Caan’s Garden & Gifts, Cain’s Bridal Wreath, Maggie’s Closet, and more.
11. Take a ride at WADE House Stagecoach Inn
W7965 WI-23, Greenbush
On your way to or from Plymouth, stop by Wade House (only six miles away from Plymouth). In addition to the Wade Stagecoach Inn, you can visit the Herrling Sawmill and Dockstader Blacksmith Shop. This Wisconsin Historical site offers wagon rides and even a special stagecoach during Prairie Schooner Saturdays.
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