AGP Executive Report

Tourism & Visitor Economy: Wisconsin is seeing record-breaking tourism again, with the state’s visitor economy hitting a new high and continuing a fourth straight year of growth. Local Travel & Getting Around: Sheboygan’s mayor is pushing Amtrak for expanded passenger rail service, arguing it could boost mobility and tourism. Outdoor & Hiking: Rib Mountain State Park highlights scenic trails and local history, a strong pick for Central Wisconsin day trips. Safety for Summer Plans: A Wisconsin heat-safety guide breaks down when it’s too hot to exercise, using wet-bulb heat stress guidance. Lottery Convenience: The Wisconsin Lottery’s Winner Wagon made its first stop in La Crosse, letting big-prize winners cash checks on-site up to $200,000. Mobility Rules: Hartland is moving forward with an ordinance review for e-bikes and e-scooters, including rider safety and where devices can operate. New Stays in Wisconsin Dells: Dellshire Resort opens in the Dells with a medieval fantasy theme, new family amenities, and a major indoor/outdoor water experience. Travel Disruption Watch: A Frontier Airlines passenger tried to breach the cockpit mid-flight, with the incident tied to broader reports of unruly passenger behavior during peak travel season.

Wisconsin Tourism Boom: Wisconsin logged a record year for the fourth straight time in 2025, topping 117 million visits and generating about $27 billion in economic impact—fueling growth across Door County and beyond. Severe Weather Disruptions: Storms hit southern and southeast Wisconsin hard, with tornado warnings in Fond du Lac County and major damage/closures in Dodge County, including downed power lines and Highway 33 shut in Horicon. Outdoor & Adventure: A firsthand account from a deep Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness trip captures the real-life chaos of escaped horses and what it takes to keep a remote pack-out running. Rail Push in Sheboygan: Mayor Ryan Sorenson is pressing Amtrak to expand passenger rail service, arguing it could boost tourism and mobility along an existing corridor. DNR Accessibility Hunting: The Wisconsin DNR is recruiting landowners for the fall Gun Deer Hunt for Hunters With Disabilities, with enrollment and hosting requirements and a new 2026 schedule. Road America Racing: INDYCAR returns to Road America June 18-21 in Elkhart Lake, with the XPEL Grand Prix set for June 21.

Wisconsin Tourism Boom: Wisconsin logged a record $27 billion in tourism economic impact in 2025, with 117.9 million visits and more than $1.7 billion in state and local revenue—marking the fourth straight year of growth. Local Tourism Wins: La Crosse County hit a new high with $532 million in 2025 tourism impact, while Chippewa and Eau Claire counties also reported strong gains, driven by major events and year-round attractions. Tourism Planning & Access: A new fence and trail camera at an Ozaukee County Lake Michigan preserve in Grafton is restricting shoreline walking, sparking debate over public access versus property rights. Door County Lodging Fight: A judge dismissed a lawsuit aimed at stopping demolition of the historic Alpine Resort lodge in Egg Harbor, clearing the way for its owner to proceed. Agritourism Spotlight: Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc is drawing visitors with hands-on education that connects people to where food comes from. Health & Outdoors: A New York study found a potentially more serious Lyme disease bacterium in ticks, while Wisconsin’s Menominee Forest forestry operation is weighing automation to meet demand.

Wisconsin Tourism Boom: Wisconsin hit a new record in 2025, with tourism generating nearly $27 billion in economic impact and 117.9 million visits, up 4.4% from 2024—driven by big draws like the NFL Draft in Green Bay and EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. Milwaukee’s Pull: Milwaukee County alone logged a record $4.431 billion total impact in 2025, with $2.507 billion in direct visitor spending and 27,812 jobs supported. Regional Standouts: La Crosse County reached a milestone with $532 million in 2025 impact, while Chippewa County posted $205 million and Eau Claire County generated $480 million—both marking strong multi-year growth. Marathon County Momentum: Greater Wausau’s tourism nearly hit $490 million in 2025, reinforcing its “basecamp” identity. Getting There: Gas prices are easing nationally as crude stays below $100, but summer travel could still bring volatility. Road Safety Note: WisDOT is warning drivers about pavement buckling as temperatures rise—slow down and check 511 Wisconsin before heading out.

Tourism Boom: Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Tourism say 2025 delivered a record $27 billion in tourism economic impact, 117.9 million visits, and more than $1.7 billion in state and local revenue—another “hat trick” year. New Local Stops: Vitruvius café has opened in Middleton, turning a former conference room into a coffee-and-tea hangout with events and live music. Pet-Friendly Dining: A new dog-friendly café, Brody’s Coffee, opened in Westhampton Beach, built around a “bring your pup” vibe. Air Travel for Fans: Delta is adding and upgrading flights at Green Bay Austin Straubel this fall to boost Packers travel options. Summer Events & Culture: Green Bay’s Public Square community storytelling photo exhibit wraps up with a short outdoor display in St. James Park, and the 50th annual Great Lakes Area Traditional Powwow runs June 19-21 at Hannahville. Travel Safety Watch: Experts warn Saharan dust can surge into the U.S. summer sky, affecting weather patterns and visibility. Travel Retail Tech: WHSmith and SOLUM are rolling out electronic shelf labels across WHSmith’s UK travel stores, starting at Heathrow. Outdoors & Conservation: A Wisconsin DNR case targets illegal poisoning of beaver carcasses on state forest land.

Wisconsin Center District: The board voted to terminate CEO Marty Brooks’ employment after allegations tied to misuse of district funds, bylaw/handbook violations, and misrepresentation to the board—an issue that could affect major Milwaukee-area venues like the Baird Center, UWM Panther Arena, and Miller High Life Theatre. Outdoors & Public Lands: A Rhinelander town hall heard debate over the Trump administration’s rescinding of the Roadless Rule, which protects millions of acres of National Forest from logging and roadbuilding, including parts of the Chequamegon-Nicolet. Northern Wisconsin Investigation: Police are investigating unidentified skeletal remains found at a Laona home, with state and federal crime-lab partners assisting. Travel & Events: Green Bay Austin Straubel International is adding special Delta round-trip flights for multiple Packers games, boosting fall travel options for fans. Nature & Health: Wisconsin’s Invasive Species Council announced 2026 Action Awards winners, highlighting volunteer and professional efforts to protect lakes, wetlands, grasslands, and forests. Road Trip Reality Check: Gas prices are still shaping summer plans for boaters, with higher fuel costs pushing travelers to plan fills more carefully. Northwoods Stay Idea: A Blockbuster-themed Airbnb in Wisconsin is drawing attention for turning 1990s nostalgia into a lakeside vacation rental.

Strawberry Season Watch: You-pick strawberry season is nearly here in Wisconsin, but growers say a dry late spring means more early-morning irrigation—and the short, weather-sensitive harvest window could make or break profits. Local Outdoors & Events: Florence County hosts a Competitive Mounted Orienteering weekend at Halls Creek Horse Camp and Trailhead, with sanctioned rides for riders of all levels. Boating Costs: Higher fuel prices are reshaping summer plans for boaters, with regular and diesel still up sharply year over year. Milwaukee Summer Fun: Chillwaukee is bringing popsicles and Hawaiian-style shaved ice to the Milwaukee Public Market patio on weekends. Transit Update: Milwaukee County Transit System summer route and schedule changes took effect Sunday, including restored midday service on four routes. Wisconsin Arts: “Water for Elephants” returns to Wisconsin with a run at the Madison Overture Center June 16–21. Sports Spotlight: A teen racer from Sun Prairie, Logan Julien, balances high school with sprint car racing after a career-best World of Outlaws finish.

Meet the Press Drama in Wisconsin: President Donald Trump abruptly walked out of an NBC interview with Kristen Welker after a heated exchange over his unverified claims of “rigged” elections tied to California’s ongoing vote count, calling Welker and major networks “crooked” and ripping off his microphone as rain disrupted the barn setting. Local Pageant Spotlight: La Crosse community members held a send-off for Miss La Crosse Oktoberfest Vivian Stephenson, who will compete for Miss Wisconsin later this June with a platform focused on youth well-being through dance. Outdoor Community Fun: Milwaukee’s Lincoln Creek Week returns with a full week of free, family-friendly nature activities—paddling, biking, hiking, and more—running June 20-27, kicking off with a picnic at McGovern Park and ending at Lincoln Park. Local Arts & Craft: A new Green Lake pottery studio, Hands Down Pottery and Gifts, opened after a family turned an empty storefront into a ceramics-and-gifts shop built around community and handmade work.

NBA Finals Travel & Tourism Angle: The New York Knicks are up 2-0 over the San Antonio Spurs, and both teams are taking a travel day before Game 3 Monday, June 8, at Madison Square Garden—where President Trump is expected to watch and ticket prices reportedly near $10,000, a reminder that major sports weekends can drive big visitor demand. Milwaukee Summer Fun: Banana Ball rolled into Milwaukee at American Family Field with a sold-out crowd, blending fast-paced baseball with music, dancing, and strong local ties for visiting families. Outdoor Recreation Milestone: The Superior Hiking Trail is celebrating 40 years with a community-wide hike, drawing hundreds along the 300-mile route from the Wisconsin-Minnesota border to Canada. Community Connections in Green Bay: Wisconsin Watch brought its Public Square Project to Green Bay, spotlighting photojournalist Joe Timmerman’s yearlong look at people and places that build neighbor-to-neighbor connections. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest premium gas in Milwaukee County hit $4.89 per gallon (week ending May 30), with diesel also easing in parts of the region—useful for road-trip planning. Local Nature & Safety: Wisconsin DNR highlights Free Fun Weekend June 6-7, while tick activity is increasing statewide, signaling more outdoor-season prep for visitors.

Wisconsin Free Fun Weekend: The Wisconsin DNR is waiving state park admission, fishing licenses, and state trail passes on June 6-7, with fishing clinics at some locations and normal fishing rules still in place. Outdoor Safety & Access: Hartland’s village board will consider an e-bike safety ordinance to align local rules with Wisconsin’s Class 1-3 e-bike speeds and traffic expectations. Road & Travel Planning: WisDOT will run overnight I-41 closures (9 p.m.-5 a.m., Mon-Thu) near the I-41/Highway 60 interchange, with detours posted. Fuel Watch (Milwaukee area): GasBuddy reports the lowest Milwaukee County premium at $4.89/gal (week ending May 30) and lowest diesel at $5.29/gal; statewide premium averaged $5.47. Summer Boating Costs: Rising fuel prices are pushing boaters to rethink fill-ups, with ethanol-free fuel often costing more. Local Events: Community calendars and June 6-19 listings highlight what to do across Wisconsin this week.

Outdoor Free Fun: Wisconsin DNR’s Free Fun Weekend runs June 6–7, waiving state park admission, fishing licenses, and trail passes across 50 parks, 15 forests, and more. Tourism & Local Economy: Madison’s Overture Center is projected to add nearly $67 million to the local economy in 2025–2026, with 500,000+ guests and 400+ jobs supported. Travel Costs for Summer Trips: Fuel prices are still shaping plans for boaters, with ethanol-free options often costing more. Roads & Getting Around: Neenah adopted an e-bike ordinance aimed at clarifying rules and improving safety as complaints rise. Community & Care: A Racine County family is urgently seeking a kidney donor for 10-year-old Theo Scott, with travel limited to within four hours of Children’s Wisconsin. Safety on the Road: Six people were injured in a two-car crash in Kewaunee County, with responders including state patrol and local fire/EMS. On the Ground in Wisconsin: President Trump visited Chippewa Falls for an agriculture event, drawing attention for remarks that mixed politics with farm-focused messaging.

Solar & Local Planning: St. Croix County says talks with Xcel Energy over a joint development agreement for the Ten Mile Creek Solar Project have fallen apart, with Xcel saying it will file with the state Public Service Commission and is open to restarting later. Travel Safety & Health: Milwaukee health officials are monitoring three travelers returning from central Africa for Ebola; officials say they’re at very low risk and there’s no public danger. Outdoor Deals: Wisconsin’s DNR is kicking off the 14th annual Free Fun Weekend June 6–7, with waived state park admission fees and free fishing opportunities. Road & River Disruptions: The Iowa 9/WIS 82 Mississippi River bridge center span install will shut down the free car ferry and restrict boat traffic June 11–12 near Lansing. Gas Watch: GasBuddy reports midgrade prices in Milwaukee County averaged $4.86 for the week ending May 30, with the lowest station at $4.29. Lyme Season Alert: Researchers report a rare Lyme strain (Borrelia mayonii) spreading beyond its usual range, underscoring tick precautions for Wisconsin travelers and campers. Community Events: A free Movie Night in Milwaukee’s 5th District (June 20) pairs live music and food trucks with an outdoor screening of “Mrs. Doubtfire.”

Summer Travel & Local Events: The West Shore Fishing Museum in Menominee reopens for the summer on Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 6, with free admission and a first weekend plant sale at Bailey Park. Community Calendar: Manistique’s Summer Street Party returns June 12 (6:30-9:30 p.m.) in the social district, featuring live music, family activities, and a community booth. Outdoor & Nature: Green Bay is moving ahead with a $2 million Atkinson Marsh restoration project, aiming to improve habitat and access for birders near the Fox River. Health & Travel Precautions: Milwaukee Health Department is monitoring three “very low-risk” travelers after recent trips to areas near an Ebola outbreak; officials say there’s no public health concern. Safety Watch: Authorities in Laona found unidentified human remains during a property search, with a multi-agency investigation underway. Road-Trip Reality Check: A new report flags higher summer travel costs and urges travelers to double-check bookings and contracts to avoid scams. Rail Fan Stop: Union Pacific’s Big Boy No. 4014 is drawing crowds as it continues its America 250 East Coast tour.

Biodiversity Meets Tech: Vantage Data Centers and Ramboll are using biodiversity modeling for a 672-acre “Lighthouse Campus” in Port Washington, aiming for up to a 60% biodiversity boost via native grasslands, wetland retention, pollinator landscaping, and habitat restoration for migratory birds and the rusty patched bumblebee. Outdoor Deals: Wisconsin’s DNR is waiving state park admission, fishing licenses, and trail pass fees for Free Fun Weekend on June 6-7, with tackle-loaner sites and a Fishing Finder to help first-timers get started. Northern Lights Forecast: NOAA issued a Strong Geomagnetic Storm (G3) watch for tonight, with aurora visibility possible across Wisconsin and parts of the Midwest, though clouds could interfere. Travel Costs Watch: GasBuddy says Milwaukee County’s lowest E15 price hit $4.06 (week ending May 30), as summer travel pressure builds. Local Tourism Spotlight: Manistee’s First Street Beach was named the nation’s Best Lake Beach by USA TODAY 10Best readers, highlighting amenities and accessibility along Lake Michigan. Public Safety & Health: A Wisconsin “Skull in the Woods” case ended with a former Minnesota mortician sentenced to jail time, and a travel-health guide reminds travelers to check vaccine needs before trips.

State Politics & Tourism Impact: Wisconsin’s Legislature races are heating up, with a new roundup listing all the contested state Senate and Assembly matchups ahead of the August 11 primary. Agriculture & Rural Travel: Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mandela Barnes released an agriculture agenda—antitrust enforcement, tariff refund pushes, and limits on foreign/out-of-state farmland purchases—coming as President Trump is set to visit rural Wisconsin. Wildlife & Outdoor Plans: The Trumpeter Trail at Sandhill State Wildlife Area in Babcock is highlighted as a drive-or-hike route open sunrise to sunset through October, with bison viewing from the Bison Barrens Tower. Privacy vs. Safety: “Flock” license plate camera controversies continue across Wisconsin communities as residents weigh privacy and safety concerns and police oversight. Transit & Getaway Convenience: Madison is moving closer to an Amtrak station after a building sale advanced, with supporters pitching stronger connections for tourism and business between Madison and Milwaukee. Family Fun Outdoors: Wisconsin’s 14th annual Free Fun Weekend waives state park fees, fishing licenses, and trail passes June 6-7, with free fishing clinics and extended park hours. Nature Conservation: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service finalized critical habitat for the rusty patched bumble bee, including more than 1.5 million acres across multiple states with Wisconsin included.

Free Fun Weekend: Wisconsin DNR is waiving state park admission fees, fishing licenses, and trail passes June 6-7 for the 14th annual Free Fun Weekend, opening 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, and thousands of miles of rivers/streams plus inland lakes; free fishing clinics are planned and most parks/trails run 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Wildlife Habitat Closure: A 125-acre portion of Pierce County Islands State Wildlife Area is closed to recreation until construction ends in 2027 as a habitat restoration project with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers aims to improve backwaters, fish habitat, floodplain forests, and waterfowl areas. Pollinator Protection: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service finalized critical habitat designations for the endangered rusty patched bumble bee across more than 1.5 million acres in 33 counties across six states, including Wisconsin. Local Summer Rules Watch: A Greenfield festival incident is prompting questions about hoodie/face-covering rules and how private-event dress policies are enforced. Travel Safety & Access: DNR also warns anglers about invasive bait worms and urges people not to dump worms; meanwhile, ATV/UTV law changes effective June 1 are in the mix for riders planning outdoor trips.