Wisconsin is home to one of the most unique features in the world, and by unique, we mean that the center of the world is in Wisconsin. It’s true! Most folks don’t believe it at first, but Wisconsin boasts a truly fascinating reputation. Up in the central part of the state, west of Wausau is a totally amazing spot that only exists in a few places in the world. Tucked away on a farm in Poniatowski is the intersection of 45 North parallel and the 90 West parallel. If you’re looking for the center of the world, well. It’s in Wisconsin.
The 45×90 points, as they’re called, are the four points on Earth which are halfway between the geographical poles, the equator, the Prime Meridian, and the 180th meridian. Only two of these points are on land - the other two fall in the middle of the ocean. And the one not in Wisconsin is in a desolate, mountainous region of China near Mongolia that’s very difficult to visit.
Wikipedia
That makes the short hike out to the middle of a farm field in Wisconsin seem pretty darn manageable, even if I did sink into the snow quite a bit on my way there. Pro tip if you go in winter - follow the snowmobile tracks to make the trip a little easier.
Photo Courtesy of Author
We’re not kidding when we say this spot is a bit out in the middle of nowhere. But it’s not a long drive from Wausau and it’s a pretty cool place to get to visit. Not to mention surprising! Most folks don’t know that the center of the world is in Wisconsin.
Google Maps
Poniatowski is a very small unincorporated town that’s named for a Polish general. It’s one of the most unique places in Wisconsin.
Wikipedia/Bobak Ha’Eri
Because the actual marker was out in a field, there used to be a sign and a symbolic marker.
Google/Brian Priller
But recently, the area was resurveyed, a path was created, benches were put out and the official spot is now marked thanks to the generosity of donors. There’s an official marker embedded in the ground and visitors can stand in the very middle of the Northern half of the Western Hemisphere.
Photo Courtesy of Author
There’s plenty of information posted to help explain why this spot is so special and unique. It’s a true gold mine when it comes to interesting facts about Wisconsin.
Photo Courtesy of Author
With two spots underwater and a third virtually unreachable, this tiny but important spot in Wisconsin is really quite awesome.
Photo Courtesy of Author
And the scenery’s pretty darn gorgeous, as well.
Photo Courtesy of Author
Once you’ve visited the location, make sure you head to the Wausau Convention and Visitors’ Bureau in downtown Wausau to sign the visitors’ book for the 45 x 90 and get your very own commemorative coin.
Photo courtesy of author
It’s a pretty awesome and totally unique souvenir of your trip to the center of the world.
Photo courtesy of author
The easiest way to find the marker is to put the address 5651 Meridian Rd, Athens, WI 54411 in your GPS. You can also just use this Google map.
Wikipedia
Photo Courtesy of Author
Google Maps
Wikipedia/Bobak Ha’Eri
Google/Brian Priller
Photo courtesy of author
Were you surprised that the center of the world is in Wisconsin? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
Looking for more unique Wisconsin geological spots? Check out One Of The Oddest Geological Wonders Is Located Right Here In Wisconsin.
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Address: Poniatowski, WI 54426, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
center of the world is in Wisconsin June 13, 2020 Meghan Kraft What are the weirdest things about Wisconsin? Wisconsin may be known for its hospitality and Midwestern hot dishes, but there are all sorts of curious and random facts about the state that most folks don’t know. Wisconsin is home to the “Malibu of the Midwest,” and it’s actually the birthplace of the American kindergarten. Wisconsin is also home to the very first ice cream sundae. It was served in Two Rivers, Wisconsin all the way back in 1881. You can visit the world’s largest cranberry festival in September, or you can visit the Marathon County ginseng festival. Almost 10% of the world’s supply is grown in Wisconsin! What is Wisconsin known for? Wisconsin is best known as one of the largest dairy producers in the United States. It’s come to be known as, “America’s Dairyland,” and most tourists to the state come with cheese on the mind. The Midwestern gem is also known for the Dells of the Wisconsin River, the Circus World Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, and as the home of the famed and highly reputable Green Bay Packers sports team. What stereotypes are there about Wisconsin? If you’re from Wisconsin, then you probably know that folks from Wisconsin are wildly proud to be from America’s Dairyland. Their devoted fans of the Green Bay Packers and most Wisconsinites are going to be indulging in a Friday night fish fry. There’s a large hunter population in Wisconsin (keep your eye out for orange and flannel come hunting season!) and the state is also proud to be the bratwurst capital of the world. You can visit a series of festivals throughout the year that honor the delicious sausage!
The OIYS Visitor Center
center of the world is in Wisconsin
June 13, 2020
Meghan Kraft
What are the weirdest things about Wisconsin? Wisconsin may be known for its hospitality and Midwestern hot dishes, but there are all sorts of curious and random facts about the state that most folks don’t know. Wisconsin is home to the “Malibu of the Midwest,” and it’s actually the birthplace of the American kindergarten. Wisconsin is also home to the very first ice cream sundae. It was served in Two Rivers, Wisconsin all the way back in 1881. You can visit the world’s largest cranberry festival in September, or you can visit the Marathon County ginseng festival. Almost 10% of the world’s supply is grown in Wisconsin! What is Wisconsin known for? Wisconsin is best known as one of the largest dairy producers in the United States. It’s come to be known as, “America’s Dairyland,” and most tourists to the state come with cheese on the mind. The Midwestern gem is also known for the Dells of the Wisconsin River, the Circus World Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, and as the home of the famed and highly reputable Green Bay Packers sports team. What stereotypes are there about Wisconsin? If you’re from Wisconsin, then you probably know that folks from Wisconsin are wildly proud to be from America’s Dairyland. Their devoted fans of the Green Bay Packers and most Wisconsinites are going to be indulging in a Friday night fish fry. There’s a large hunter population in Wisconsin (keep your eye out for orange and flannel come hunting season!) and the state is also proud to be the bratwurst capital of the world. You can visit a series of festivals throughout the year that honor the delicious sausage!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Wisconsin may be known for its hospitality and Midwestern hot dishes, but there are all sorts of curious and random facts about the state that most folks don’t know. Wisconsin is home to the “Malibu of the Midwest,” and it’s actually the birthplace of the American kindergarten. Wisconsin is also home to the very first ice cream sundae. It was served in Two Rivers, Wisconsin all the way back in 1881. You can visit the world’s largest cranberry festival in September, or you can visit the Marathon County ginseng festival. Almost 10% of the world’s supply is grown in Wisconsin!
What is Wisconsin known for?
Wisconsin is best known as one of the largest dairy producers in the United States. It’s come to be known as, “America’s Dairyland,” and most tourists to the state come with cheese on the mind. The Midwestern gem is also known for the Dells of the Wisconsin River, the Circus World Museum, the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, and as the home of the famed and highly reputable Green Bay Packers sports team.
What stereotypes are there about Wisconsin?
If you’re from Wisconsin, then you probably know that folks from Wisconsin are wildly proud to be from America’s Dairyland. Their devoted fans of the Green Bay Packers and most Wisconsinites are going to be indulging in a Friday night fish fry. There’s a large hunter population in Wisconsin (keep your eye out for orange and flannel come hunting season!) and the state is also proud to be the bratwurst capital of the world. You can visit a series of festivals throughout the year that honor the delicious sausage!
