Is That ’90s Show Based in Wisconsin? (And Do They Even Have Wi-Fi There?)
So, you’re wondering if “That ’90s Show” is actually set in Wisconsin. You’re not alone. The show’s creators have gone to great lengths to capture the essence of Wisconsin, but let’s face it, the real question is: can you really capture the essence of Wisconsin in a TV show?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding…maybe.
“That ’90s Show” follows Leia Forman, the daughter of Eric and Donna, as she spends the summer of 1995 with her grandparents, Red and Kitty, in Point Place, Wisconsin. It’s a nostalgic trip back to the era of dial-up internet, grunge music, and the ever-present threat of a Red Forman lecture.
But is Point Place real? Sadly, no. The town is entirely fictional, much like the fictional town of “Newhart” that was actually located in the real-life town of Garrison, Vermont. They might as well have called it “Point Place, Wisconsin” because let’s be honest, Wisconsin is the only place you can get a cheesehead hat that’s more than a fashion statement. It’s practically a religious experience.
But the show does attempt to capture the spirit of Wisconsin. There’s the iconic “cheesehead” hats, the references to “Green Bay Packers” and “Milwaukee Brewers”, and the general sense of Midwestern hospitality that can only be found in a place where the people still believe in the power of a good casserole.
The show even tries to capture the Wisconsin accent. Let’s just say it’s an accent that’s as elusive as a good parking spot in Milwaukee on a Friday night. But hey, at least they’re trying.
The “That ’90s Show” Wisconsin Experience: A Mixed Bag
The show does a decent job of capturing the general feel of Wisconsin, but it’s not without its missteps. For example, they seem to forget that even in the 90s, Wisconsin was not a land of pure innocence and cheese curds.
- The “Cheesehead” Myth: I’m not sure if the writers actually spent any time in Wisconsin, because the show often perpetuates the “cheesehead” stereotype. Yes, cheeseheads are a thing, but they’re not the only thing. There’s a lot more to Wisconsin than just cheese curds and Green Bay Packers, There’s also a thriving arts scene, a vibrant LGBTQ community, and a growing tech industry. We’re not all wearing cheeseheads and yelling “Go Pack Go!” all the time.
- The “Midwestern Hospitality” Myth: The show tries to portray Wisconsin as a place where everyone is friendly and welcoming. While this is true in some parts of Wisconsin, it’s not necessarily a universal truth. And let’s be honest, the “Midwestern hospitality” can be a bit overwhelming at times. It’s like being hugged by a giant casserole.
- The “Small Town” Myth: The show portrays Point Place as a small, sleepy town where everyone knows everyone else. While this may be true in some small towns in Wisconsin, it’s definitely not true for all of them. Wisconsin has some pretty big cities, including Milwaukee and Madison. And even in the smaller towns, there’s a lot going on. There are festivals, farmers markets, and all kinds of events happening all the time, which, in my opinion, would be way more exciting than the “small-town” storyline.
Beyond the Stereotypes: A Wisconsin You Might Not Know
The truth about Wisconsin is that it’s a state of contradictions. It’s a place where you can find both the gentle beauty of the Driftless Area and the rugged charm of the Northwoods. It’s a place where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of a big city or the peace and quiet of a small town. It’s a place where you can experience the best of both worlds.
So, while “That ’90s Show” does a decent job of capturing some of the stereotypes of Wisconsin, it doesn’t really capture the true essence of the state. It’s a place that’s much more complex and nuanced than the show makes it out to be.
Wisconsin: More Than Just Cheese Curds and Green Bay Packers
Here are a few things to consider about Wisconsin that might surprise you:
- The Food Scene: Wisconsin is not just about cheese curds and bratwurst. There’s a growing culinary scene here, with chefs using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative and delicious dishes.
- The Arts Scene: Wisconsin has a thriving arts scene, with museums, theaters, and galleries in cities and towns across the state. Milwaukee has a particularly impressive collection of art museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Charles Allis Art Museum, and the Grohmann Museum.
- The Tech Industry: Wisconsin is becoming a hub for technology, with companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft establishing offices in the state. This is attracting a young, talented workforce and creating new opportunities for growth.
- The Outdoor Recreation: Wisconsin is a nature lover’s paradise, with lakes, rivers, forests, and parks to explore. Whether you’re hiking, biking, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery, Wisconsin has something for everyone.
A Final Thought: Embrace the Real Wisconsin
“That ’90s Show” is a fun, nostalgic show, but it doesn’t really do justice to the real Wisconsin. So, if you’re looking for a truly authentic Wisconsin experience, I encourage you to visit the state for yourself. You might be surprised by what you discover.
And remember, don’t be afraid to ask for a cheesehead hat. It’s practically a badge of honor here. Just don’t expect everyone to be wearing one. We’re more than cheeseheads. We’re Wisconsinites. And that’s something we’re proud of.
