In popular culture, Wisconsin is often the butt of the joke. However, and a born and raised Wisconsonite, I can attest to the fact that Wisconsin is actually pretty great.

1. Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty

For a delicious logging camp breakfast, you have to go to Paul Bunyan's. No menu: just tons of yummy breakfast food brought to you right away.

2. Wisconsin Dells

One of the most beautiful and fun places in Wisco, go to the Dells and take the boat/duck tours, visit the largest waterpark, see the ski shows, and about a million other things.

3. Culvers

While Culver's isn't only in Wisconsin, we do boast a pretty large number of these restaurants and a state-wide love for the custard.

4. Door County

Yet another place of natural beauty.

5. Minocqua

6. Going "up north"

Everyone is Wisconsin knows what "going up north" means, and we all do it every summer.

7. That 70's Show

8. Laura Ingalls Wilder

9. The lakes

So many beautiful lakes to visit in the summertime. And yes, we have more lakes than Minnesota (suck it).

10. Mark Ruffalo

That's right! Mark Ruffalo was born in Kenosha.

11. Chris Farley

One of the greatest actors ever, Chris Farley was born and raised in the Madison area.

12. Cheese curds

Whether squeaky or deep fried, these things are DELICIOUS.