---17/52--- Mars Cheese Castle

I have to admit... I’ve never actually been in the Mars Cheese Castle. But I’ve driven by this massive, 80ft tall mid-century marquee sign 100 times. You cannot miss it. Whether you’re from Wisconsin OR Illinois, you’ve likely passed it at least once. I’d say it’s the unofficial gateway to Wisconsin as you drive north from Chicago. Because nothing says we love cheese like a structure fit for royalty. The castle actually comes from more humble beginnings. It originally operated out of a schoolhouse from 1947 until 1957 when it burned down. The fire pushed them to overtake a gas station just south of the location while they built a new Cheese Castle. They eventually outgrew that NEW location and entered in a deal with the state to build the current structure opened in 2011. Through all that time and history, they’ve kept the same sign. And THAT I am thankful for. Oh, and cheese. I’m also thankful for cheese. 🧀