A Zesty Visit to the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin

Nestled in downtown Middleton, the National Mustard Museum is a delightfully quirky food-lovers’ haven—no admission fee required, just a curious spirit and a love for America’s favorite (and sometimes unexpected) condiment.

🌟 The Man Behind the Pickle‑Yellow Empire

Founded by Barry Levenson—once Wisconsin’s Assistant Attorney General—this mustard obsession began after the 1986 World Series. Heartbroken over the Red Sox’s stunning loss, Barry wandered into a supermarket at 3 AM and heard the jars whisper: “If you collect us, they will come.” That impulse led him to buy a dozen mustards and eventually launch a full-time mustard museum in 1992.

By 2009, his collection had expanded from humble beginnings to over 6,000 jars from 50 states and 70+ countries—and counting. Barry also brought his playful spirit to the museum, self-styling as Chief Mustard Officer and sharing his culinary experiments—like mustard pudding and crème brûlée—through classes and media features.

🏰 Mustard Museum Highlights

The Great Wall of Mustard

A towering display of thousands of mustard varieties—jars from all over the globe line the shelves, showcasing every flavor and color imaginable.

MustardPiece Theatre & Quiz Kiosk

Sit back and enjoy short films like Mustard: The Spice of Nations, then test your new knowledge with a fun interactive quiz.

Gibbons Collection & Historical Exhibits

Experience a curated display of antique mustard pots, vintage tins, and historical memorabilia—including exhibits on mustard cultivation, seed origins, and medicinal uses .

Mrs. Mustard’s Kitchen

Discover creative ways to incorporate mustard into your daily cooking, along with health facts (including mustard baths and metabolism-boosting tips!).

🥄 Taste-Testing Heaven: The Tasting Bar

One of the most popular experiences here is the free tasting bar inside the gift shop. Guests can sample hundreds of mustards—from fruity cranberry and sesame-honey blends to fiesty pepper varieties, truffle aioli, and bacon-infused spreads. Visitors rave about the endless options:

You’ll also encounter signature playful touches like the mustard vending machine and a custom condiment-themed gift shop stocked with towels, games, and more .

🎉 Events & Extra Zest

• National Mustard Day Festival: Held the first Saturday in August, this annual downtown event brings games, live music, food stalls, and free mustard tastings—literally shutting down the street in celebration.

• World‑Wide Mustard Competition: Barry hosts a global contest that evaluates mustards across 17 categories, crowning the best in class.

Why You’ll Love It

• Educational & Entertaining: The museum merges food history, agriculture, science, and pop culture with humor—a mustard lover’s dream.

• Highly Accessible: With free admission, tasting experiences, and lots of hands-on fun, it’s ideal for families, foodies, and anyone seeking a quirky day out.

Plan Your Visit

• Location: 7477 Hubbard Ave, Middleton, WI

• Hours: Daily, 10 AM–5 PM; closed on major holidays 

• Cost: Always free—though donations are appreciated to support this salty sanctuary