If you hop onto I-88 and drive for about three hours, you’ll encounter rolling hills dotted with small towns, farms, and woodland pastures. It’s pretty reminiscent of the alpine farmlands of Glarus, Switzerland.
However, instead of Switzerland, you’ll find yourself in New Glarus, Wisconsin‚ also understood as America’s Little Switzerland.
While New Galrus may sound familiar because it’s on the label of the beloved beer, Spotted Cow, the town dates back more than 100 years.
A guide to Little Switzerland
New Glarus was initially settled in 1845 by a group of 108 Swiss pioneers who left the Canton of Glarus in Switzerland during an economic crisis. Since then, generations of residents and a steady influx of Swiss immigrants have preserved the community’s Swiss-German language, folk traditions, and music.
This special blend of old and new Swiss in New Glarus has made this little town a unique place to visit near Chicago.
Upcoming festivals in New Glarus, Wisconsin
Beer, Bacon & Cheese Festival
June 14, 2025
Sample some of the region’s most unforgettable flavors—craft beer, artisan cheese, and a savory selection of local specialty meats, including sizzling bacon!
Polkafest
June 13 – 14, 2025
The exciting two-day festival brings free polka music and dancing to downtown New Glarus. Enjoy local beer and nonstop entertainment to celebrate Roger Bright, a beloved local musician and bandleader who made a lasting impact on the polka world.
Blues, Brews, & Food Truck Festival
July 19, 2025
New Glarus Blues, Brews & Food Truck Festival has everything—New Glarus Brewing Company beer and a fantastic selection of food trucks.
The perfect outdoor escape
While there are a ton of festivals throughout the summer, New Glarus is also the starting point for the 23-mile Sugar River Bike Trail, and New Glarus Woods State Park is less than a mile from the edge of the village.
Whether your interests lie in heading on a bike ride near the State Park or dancing at a festival, you’ll find plenty to do in New Glarus.
How to get to New Glarus, Wisconsin
You can take the I-88 W, which is approximately a 3-hour car drive, or you can take the Coach USA Galder bus.
