This week, join host Dannelle Gay on a peaceful pilgrimage across Wisconsin — exploring the state's most beautiful and meaningful shrines, grottos, temples, and sacred sites.
From the intricate stonework of the Dickeyville Grotto to the spiritual grandeur of Holy Hill, and from hidden folk-art creations to the inclusive beauty of the Hindu Temple of Wisconsin, these places showcase faith, craftsmanship, and community in remarkable ways.
Whether you're a traveler of spirit, history, or curiosity, this episode celebrates how Wisconsin's landscape holds space for reflection — and a little awe.
Featured Sites & Highlights 1. Dickeyville Grotto — Dickeyville, WI
A colorful folk-art shrine built by Father Mathias Wernerus in the 1920s–30s from glass, shells, and stone. Combines patriotic and religious imagery — truly one of a kind. dickeyvillegrotto.com
2. Rudolph Grotto Gardens — Rudolph, WI
Five acres of devotional art, shrines, and the "Wonder Cave," a one-fifth-mile underground passage of hand-built chapels. rudolphgrotto.org
3. Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians (Holy Hill) — Hubertus, WI
Soaring above the Kettle Moraine, this 1930s basilica features an observation tower and panoramic views of fall colors and faith. holyhill.com
4. Hindu Temple of Wisconsin — Pewaukee, WI
A stunning example of North and South Indian temple architecture, open to visitors of all faiths. ourhtw.org
5. National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion — Champion, WI
The only Church-approved Marian apparition site in the U.S. Pilgrims visit to honor Mary and walk the rosary trail. championshrine.org
6. Paul & Matilda Wegner Grotto — Cataract, WI
Folk-art mosaics, a "Glass Church," and colorful sculptures built by the Wegners in the 1930s. jmkac.org
7. Our Lady of Fatima Shrine — Milwaukee, WI
An urban Marian shrine built by Dominican Sisters in the 1940s — peaceful gardens and monthly devotions. archmil.org
8. Sacred Heart Shrine — Hales Corners, WI
Set within seminary gardens — peaceful fountains, walking paths, and reflection benches.
9. Shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary — Necedah, WI
A site associated with unapproved 1949 apparitions, yet a fascinating chapter in Wisconsin's spiritual story.
10. Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe — La Crosse, WI
A hilltop shrine celebrating Mexican Catholic tradition, featuring breathtaking architecture and pilgrim trails. guadalupeshrine.org
Bonus Stop: Apostle Islands Sea Caves (Bayfield, WI)
While not a shrine in the religious sense, these natural cathedrals of stone and ice feel truly sacred — offering silence, reverence, and awe in every echo.
Tips for Exploring Wisconsin's Sacred Sites
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Dress modestly and respectfully, even if you're not attending a service.
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Many grottos are free but rely on donations — bring small cash bills.
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Visit in spring or fall for the most comfortable walking weather.
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Always check seasonal hours — some sites close in winter or for private retreats.
"Sacred Wisconsin Road Trip" Map
Create your own spiritual circuit: Route Idea: Start at Holy Hill → Pewaukee → Dickeyville → Rudolph → Necedah → La Crosse → Bayfield for the Sea Caves finale. Perfect for reflective travelers, photographers, or architecture lovers.
Episode Highlights
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00:00–03:00 — Wisconsin's sacred artistry and faith traditions
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03:01–10:00 — Dickeyville, Rudolph, and Wegner Grottos
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10:01–17:00 — Major shrines: Holy Hill, Champion, Guadalupe
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17:01–23:00 — Temples and diverse worship traditions
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23:01–30:00 — Why sacred travel matters — even for the non-religious
Connect & Share
Listen & Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Follow Dannelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheTravelingCheesehead Read & explore more at TheTravelingCheesehead.com Share your favorite Wisconsin grotto, shrine, or temple — it might appear in a future listener spotlight!
