Wisconsin is famous for its wonderful cheese, and the heart of Wisconsin cheese country is located in Green County. Like any Wisconsin native, I love good cheese – give me a bag of fresh curds, some 10 year old cheddar, or maybe some sharp, spicy cheese, and I’m a happy man. I had the opportunity to visit the National Historic Cheesemaking Center Museum in Monroe, and I think it’s one of the best things to do in Monroe, Wisconsin. If you love delicious cheese as much as I do, you’ll want to visit this place. Here’s why.

You’ll find this unique museum in a place that bills itself as the “Cheese Capital of the United States.” The area has a long history of cheesemaking dating back to the 1800s when European immigrants settled here.

Green County cheesemaking began about 180 years ago, and this area was once home to hundreds of small cheese factories.

The tradition continues today: the region is home to many award-winning cheese producers. Some of my favorite cheeses are made in Green County!

The National Historical Cheesemaking Center Museum tells the history of cheesemaking in the region.

Although I have loved cheese my whole life, my appreciation deepened with a visit to the museum.

The museum’s collection includes vintage cheesemaking equipment, historic photographs, and interactive exhibits that illustrate how cheesemaking techniques and technology have evolved over the years.

One of the most interesting things about this museum is on the grounds of the installation.

There is a restored farmhouse cheese factory that was moved here from Illinois. I was able to see how this small farm created Brick, Swiss and Limburg cheeses from the milk of a herd of 40 cows.

The museum staff is helpful and has first-hand knowledge of the cheese industry.

Their expertise and storytelling really complements this museum: if you have any questions about cheese, they have answers!

When I left, I was hungry to explore a little more of Wisconsin’s cheese country.

There was so much more to explore: you’re never far from a great Green County cheese factory!

Learn more about the National Historical Center for Cheesemaking on the center’s website, including seasonal opening dates. I can’t wait to come back! Plan your trip to the land of cheese on Reservation.comand here’s where to find more Adventures in Wisconsin.