For Immediate Release: July 31, 2012
Contact: Rebekah Sweeney, (608) 266-3790
Jorgensen’s Journal: “Staycations” in Wisconsin Take You Far!
A few years ago, I first heard the word “staycation.” In case the term is new to you, it’s exactly what it sounds like - - a vacation during which you stay close to home.
If your family is like mine, a trip to Disneyworld or New York City might not be in the budget and a staycation could be just the ticket to summer fun. Thankfully, here in Wisconsin, we’ve got all kinds of entertainment within a day’s drive.
For an educational adventure, check out what the Historical Society has to offer at its 11 sites across the state. Visit Pendarvis in Mineral Point, the historic home of highly-skilled Cornish settlers who helped kickstart a lead mining craze. Or, take the kids to Circus World Museum in Baraboo, where the Ringling Brothers got their start. For information – and ticket prices – to Historical Society sites, visit
www.wisconsinhistory.org.
The Milwaukee Public Museum is also a great choice for families who want to get away close to home. The museum’s 150,000 square feet of exhibits will take you from Africa to the Arctic, and from a Costa Rican rainforest to a European village. It also features a planetarium and an IMAX theater. For a list of what’s playing – and a look at featured, seasonal displays, visit
www.mpm.edu.
To avoid filling up your gas tank altogether, take a trip on two wheels! Jefferson County is home to part of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. The cycling, walking and rollerblading trail, which starts in Cottage Grove and stretches to Waukesha, provides some of the best scenic views of Wisconsin farms, prairies, and wetlands. For more information, visit
www.glacialdrumlin.com.
You may also want to check out the other parks our area has to offer. Visit
www.jeffersoncountywi.gov to find out about the community gardens, geocaching programs, canoeing and hiking options right in your own backyard!
Finally, if your staycation takes you to Madison, I encourage you to stop in at our State Capitol. Free guided tours run every hour on the hour from the Rotunda – and if you miss them, just stop by my office. My door is always open, and I’m happy to show you around the place!
As you think about your summer break options – remember, a staycation may be just the thing. Here in Wisconsin, day trips can take you and your family far!
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