A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
Switch up your scenery and plan an unforgettable winter getaway to Wisconsin! Whether you’re exploring the charming community of Menomonie, enjoying the natural beauty in Sauk County, or embarking on the endless adventures of Land O’ Lakes, there’s something for everyone to love. Come along for an epic escape to Wisconsin!
Menomonie
Head to Menomonie to immerse yourself in a true Wisconsin winter wonderland! Explore the outdoors on the Red Cedar State Trail and Devil’s Punchbowl Nature Preserve, right off the beaten path. For more outdoor thrills, you have to check out Woodwind Park, a restored legacy full of outdoor adventures–tubing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and more!
Seeing the outdoors of Menominee is a must-do, but let’s not forget about the fun waiting to be had in the heart of downtown! Snuggle up in Mabel Tainter Theater for a historic and entertaining experience. Or, hit the town for some local shopping! There are several local shops to choose from with their niche of antiques, art, books, boutiques, and more.
After a day out in the frosty weather, dine & drink Menominee’s finest meals and brews! Start off by visiting a one-of-a-kind brewery in a train station, Brewery Nonic. To get a taste of Menomonie, dine at any outstanding restaurant nearby including casual dining, bar & grill, and supper club experiences.
Sauk County
There’s nothing but endless beauty in the Driftless Area of the state, especially in Sauk County during the winter! See signature sights including Hemlock Park, Lake Redstone Park, and White Mound County Park. Each park offers a unique experience to connect with nature.
At Hemlock Park, there are endless opportunities to explore the area’s innate natural beauty. With about 73 acres of property, pave your own way on the scattered, unmarked hiking trails. You will be mesmerized by the scenery of the wooded landscape and quaint slough.
Lake Redstone Park, about 30 acres in size, has a variety of experiences that will spark your connection with the outdoors, including a frozen waterfall, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy!
While in Sauk County, White Mound County Park is a must-visit. This idyllic park is vast in size with almost 1,100 acres! The park surrounds White Mound Lake and is open to explore and admire its wild beauty.
Overlooking White Mound County Park is the Prairie Smoke Terrace to keep you warm in the chilly weather. Snuggle up by a cozy fire, enjoy a home-cooked meal, and make memories with those you love with games and stargazing at the bright night sky above.
Land O’ Lakes
Looking for a winter destination that has outdoor activities like no other? Land O’ Lakes is the perfect place for you! The community will welcome you to join in on the fun at the Radar Run where snowmobilers race on frozen lakes of the Cisco Chain!
Hop on your own snowmobile and explore the many trails through the Northwoods, including trails that go all the way up into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! Along the Northern Arch Trail, travel all the way to Bond Falls, a truly magnificent sight in the winter, or any season.
For more winter adventures only found in Land O’ Lakes, explore the trails in the Sylvania Wilderness, a remote and rugged destination that awaits the ultimate discovery. The Sylvania Wilderness Area is home to pristine, untouched terrain including 34 known lakes and high peaks of up to 1,700 feet! Let the explorations begin with cross-country skiing and hiking.
After a day of wild rides and adventures, Bent’s Camp Bar & Restaurant has got you covered with warm, delicious food. Their menu includes a wide variety for everyone to enjoy from homemade pizzas to burgers and sandwiches. Grab a souvenir from your Northwoods adventure at their gift shop!
Other local joints surround the area, too, such as The Alley Lanes & Tavern. Bowl as your delicious meal is hand-crafted. And you can’t forget about Brew’s Pub Bar & Restaurant, offering its spin on a true Northwoods dining experience.
Embrace the season’s wonders and create lasting memories in Wisconsin–the perfect destination for your winter getaway!
–Hailey Rose, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin
