TRAVEL GUIDE

Wisconsin Travel and Tempel Lipizzans

They've been protected by royalty and sought after by empires. They've performed before kings, queens, princes and dukes. They are Pegasus without wings, yet they still manage to fly. These magnificent stallions are known for their beauty, pride, intelligence and strength. People the world over are discovering the legend of the Lipizzan stallions and now you can too. Wisconsin travel planners and tourists are invited to see these stunning horses first hand at Tempel Farms in Wadsworth, Illinois.

More than a horse: A short history of the breed

The Lipizzan stallion represents over 400 years of select breeding, making it Europe's oldest domesticated horse. Founded upon selections of the most superior horses in the world the Lipizzan breed posses a rare combination of courage, strength, ability, temperament and intelligence making them the finest horses on the planet. Originated during the late 16th century by the Court of Imperial Austria, the Lipizzans have led an extraordinary life. Threatened by numerous wars and the lack of suitable food, the Lipizzan breed reached an all time low of 200 during World War II. It was not until 1955 that the Lipizzan breed began to recover. Today, there are Lipizzan horses in Austria, Yugoslavia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and the United States.

Bringing a legend to America: The Lipizzan legacy at Tempel Farm

The Tempel Lipizzan Farm dates back to 1958 when the late Tempel and Esther Smith imported 20 Lipizzan horses from an Austrian stud farm in Piber. The Tempel Farm quickly became the largest privately owned herd of Lipizzans in the world. Besides participating in hundreds of private performances, the Tempel Lipizzans have also been entertaining travelers at the Tempel Farm since 1982. Tempel Farm remains the only place in the United States where the Lipizzan is breed and trained.

A road trip that's well worth taking

Wisconsin travel planners and tourists are encouraged to visit the Tempel Lipizzan farm as part of their upcoming Mayfair Milwaukee vacation. Located just over and hour away from Milwaukee, the Tempel Lipizzan Farm provides visitors with a unique vacation experience. From competitions to demonstrations, the Tempel Lipizzan Farm is always alive with exciting activities and events. The Tempel Farm is also home to clinicians like Conrad Schumacher and Olympians like Michelle Gibson and Bruce Davidson. Competitions that are hosted at the Farm include Dressage at Tempel Farms and the North American Young Rider Championship.

A show you won't soon forget

Wisconsin travel planners and tourists are invited to stop in and enjoy a performance of the Tempel Lipizzans during an upcoming vacation. These beautiful performances contain seven distinct parts. From the presentation of foals to the impressive displays of airs above the ground, the Tempel Lipizzans are bound to amaze. Tickets to a Tempel Lipizzan performance are just $17 for adults, $10 for children 4-14 and $15 for seniors. Special group rates are available for Wisconsin travel groups of 15 or more.

Things to know about the Tempel Lipizzan shows

• The Tempel Lipizzans have been performing for the public for more than 20 years.
• Shows last about 70 minutes and are followed by a self-guided stable tour.
• Performances show Lipizzans in all levels of training, from the youngest foals to the most highly trained stallions.
• Most areas are handicap accessible
• Wisconsin travel planners and tourists will find general bleacher seating as well as some chair seating at most performances.
• Performances are held outdoors and indoors (during inclement weather).
• Potable restrooms facilities are located near the arena.